What does the lesser omentum connect in the human body?

The lesser omentum plays a significant role in connecting various structures within the abdominal cavity. In particular, it connects the lesser curvature of the stomach to the porta hepatis of the liver, which is crucial for the functional anatomy of these organs. This connection provides pathways for important structures such as blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerves that supply the liver and stomach.

The lesser omentum is a membranous tissue that not only physically links these two organs but also serves as a conduit for the hepatic artery, portal vein, and bile ducts, which are vital for the digestion and metabolism processes. Such connections are important for maintaining the physiological functions of the liver and stomach, making this choice the correct one.

In contrast, the other options describe connections that do not accurately represent the anatomy associated with the lesser omentum. For instance, the greater curvature is related to the greater omentum, while the liver and spleen are connected by the gastrosplenic ligament, not the lesser omentum. Furthermore, the connection between the stomach and colon involves different anatomical structures known as mesenteries, not the lesser omentum.