Greater Omentum
Anatomy
The greater omentum (omentum majus) and the lesser omentum (omentum minus) are part of the peritoneum. The lesser omentum is connected to the lesser curvature of the stomach and with the liver, and the greater omentum is an apron-like fold that hangs down from the greater curvature of the stomach, passing in front of the small intestines and reflects on itself to ascend to the transverse colon before reaching to the posterior abdominal wall.
The functions of the greater omentum are insulation and protection of the abdominal organs: this means fat deposition, having varying amounts of adipose tissue, immune contribution, having milky spots of macrophage collections, infection and wound isolation. It may also physically limit the spread of intraperitoneal infections. The greater omentum can often be found wrapped around areas of infection and trauma.
Brain
Relay
1. Cerebellum ( + / – )
2. Cerebral Medulla (- / +) “lumbar area”, for lymphatic tissues/cells, fat depositions
Mind
Theme
1. Protection from attack of the abdomen or self
2. Self-worth regarding digestion and protection of the gut
Emotions and Thoughts
Vulnerability, fear
- I have been hit under the belt.
- I need to protect my intestines/digestion.
- I need more distance/insulation to protect me.
META-Meaning
- Now, I can take care of my belly and let go of my fears.
- Now, I can decide what happens with my belly.
- My belly is protected
- My mind can create the distance I need.
Organ
Stress Phase Symptoms
1. Enhanced fat storage (belly fat), also connected to energy storage glucagon, hunger) or to water retention in the cells. A tumour with secretory (lubrication of abdominal organs) or reabsorptive quality can develop.
2. Reduction of lymphatic cells, susceptibility to abdominal infection.
Regeneration Phase Symptoms
1. Fat reduction (lipolysis) and possibly weight loss. When degradation of excess tissue happens in presence of bacteria, mycobacteria or fungi, nightly sweats are experienced. With little liquid, tissue adhesions are possible; much liquid as in water retention leads to ascites.
2. Regeneration of the lymphatics, possibly in excess. By recurring processes, “autoimmune” reactions are promoted.
Healing Peak
Chills, “inner shiver”
Biological Meaning
Enhanced protective function and emergency resources in stress phase
Social
Examples
- Accumulation of belly fat tries to comfort the frightened “inner child”.
- A “beer belly” can be consequence of coping strategies and conflict prevention in society. Beer drinking influences hormones (oestrogen uptake) and thereby reduces aggression.
Additional Information
Constellations
Cerebellum Constellation possible: reduced sensitivity (physical and emotional), “emotional burnout”
Differential Diagnosis
Affections of organs covered by the great omentum, like stomach and intestines with their respective tissues/brain relays. Lymphatic tissue and blood vessels (CM, -/+) inside the great omentum.
