What substantial fold of peritoneum extends from the stomach, passing anteriorly to the colon and small intestine?

The greater omentum is a substantial fold of peritoneum that plays a significant role in the abdominal cavity. It extends from the greater curvature of the stomach and drapes down anteriorly over the small intestine and colon, forming a protective covering. This structure can be likened to an apron that not only provides insulation and cushioning for the abdominal organs but also contains important blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, and adipose tissue, which contribute to immune functions and fat storage.

The greater omentum also has the ability to move around the abdominal cavity, allowing it to adhere to areas of inflammation or injury, thereby playing a role in the body's response to abdominal infections. This characteristic makes it a particularly noteworthy structure in anatomical and clinical studies.

In comparison, the lesser omentum connects the lesser curvature of the stomach to the liver and primarily serves as a pathway for blood vessels and bile ducts; the mesentery supports the small intestine by anchoring it to the posterior abdominal wall; while peritoneal ligaments are folds that connect organs to the abdominal wall or to each other, but they do not have the same extensive coverage or function as the greater omentum. Thus, understanding the specific roles and relationships of these structures highlights why the greater