fig2

Figure 2. Splenic flexure mobilization. A: Entering the lesser sac by dividing the mesentery at the inferior border of the pancreas; B: high ligation of the inferior mesenteric vein proximal to the ligament of Treitz and on the inferior border of the pancreas; C: division of the pancreaticomesocolic ligament; D: retroperitoneal dissection and separation of the Toldt’s fascia; E: ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery at its root; F: lateral dissection involving division of the left paracolic gutter; G: division of the splenocolic ligament; H: completion of splenic flexure mobilization by division of the gastrocolic ligaments