Gastrocolic Trunk: Anatomical Variations and Surgical Significance

This review aims to summarize the Henle trunk configurations and tributary patterns presented in cadaveric, intraoperative, and imaging studies.

The Henle gastrocolic trunk is a highly variable venous structure formed by the confluence of the gastric, colic, and pancreatic veins. It has notable surgical importance, particularly during laparoscopic procedures, such as right colectomy and pancreaticoduodenectomy.

A systematic review was performed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using the PubMed/MEDLINE and Google Scholar databases.

Twenty-one publications comprising 2,454 cases were analyzed to classify Henle trunk configurations and tributary patterns. The trunk was identified in 92.5% of the cases, with the gastropancreatocolic (GPC) type being the most prevalent (73.1%). A total of 38 unique venous confluences were recorded, highlighting the considerable anatomical complexity and variability of the trunk. The Henle gastrocolic trunk is a common anatomical structure with significant heterogeneity in its venous configurations. The GPC type, most frequently formed by the confluence of the right gastroepiploic vein, the anterior superior pancreaticoduodenal vein, and either the right colic vein or the superior right colic vein, predominates across cadaveric, intraoperative, and imaging studies. Understanding this variability is crucial for ensuring safe dissection during pancreatic and colorectal resections.

Comprehensive knowledge of the Henle trunk anatomy and its variations enhances operative planning, minimizes the risk of vascular injury, and supports safer and more efficient minimally invasive abdominal surgery.