The capsule of Glisson, also known as the Glisson’s capsule, is a thin fibrous layer that surrounds the liver and forms a protective barrier around the liver’s blood vessels, nerves, and bile ducts. It is named after Francis Glisson, an English physician who first described it in the 17th century.
The capsule of Glisson is composed of connective tissue fibers and contains blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerves. It is an important anatomical structure because it helps to maintain the shape and position of the liver within the abdominal cavity. The capsule also provides a barrier between the liver and other organs, preventing the spread of infection or inflammation.
In addition to its structural role, the capsule of Glisson also has important clinical implications. It can become inflamed in response to certain diseases or conditions, such as liver abscesses, viral hepatitis, or cirrhosis. In these cases, the capsule may become thickened or fibrotic, leading to pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen.
During surgical procedures involving the liver, such as liver transplantation or partial hepatectomy, the capsule of Glisson is carefully dissected and preserved to prevent injury to the liver’s blood vessels and bile ducts. The capsule can also be used as a landmark during imaging studies or diagnostic procedures, such as ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scans of the liver.
