466 



DIGESTIVE SYSTEM OF THE OX 



In small subjects the weight (according to Schmaltz) varies from Q}4 to 10 pounds (ca. 

 3 to 4.5 kg.), in large subjects from 11 to 13 pounds (ca. 5 to 6 kg.). According to Schneider, the 

 average weight is about 13 pounds (ca. 6 kg.)— a httle over 1 per cent, of the hve weight and 

 about 2 per cent, of the dressed carcass. 



When hardened in situ, it is seen to be adapted accurately to the structures 

 with which it is in contact. 



The parietal surface is conA^ex and is for the most part applied to the right 

 part of the diaphragm, but a small part of it is in direct contact with the last two 

 or three ribs and with the flank at the lumbo-costal angle. It faces dorsally, for- 

 ward, and to the right. 



The curvature of the parietal surface is not quite regular. It is marked, except in its ventral 

 part, by a blunt oblique ridge wliich divides the surface into two areas. Of these, the lateral one 



Caudate lobe 



Gall-bladder 



Falciform ligament (cut) 



Coronary ligament (cut) 



Posterior vena cava 



Hepatic veins 

 CEsophageal notch 



Fig. 399. — Liver of Ox, Parietal Surface; Hardened in situ. 



is directed outward, is only slightly convex, and often shows impressions of the last three ribs; it is 

 in contact in part directly with the right abdominal wall, in part with the costal part of the dia- 

 phragm which is in contact ordinarily with the lateral wall. The medial area presents a depression 

 produced by the right crus of the diaphragm, and otherwise is regularly convex and adapted to 

 the tendinous center and sternal part of the diaphragm. The falciform ligament is attached to 

 the surface from the oesophageal notch to the umbiUcal fissure. There is a triangular area of 

 considerable size on the dorso-medial part of the surface which is without a peritoneal covering, 

 since it is adherent to the diaphragm. 



The visceral surface is concave and very irregular; it presents impressions of 

 the chief organs which are in contact with it — the omasum and reticulum. It is 

 also related to the pancreas and duodenum. 



The following markings are quite distinct on the visceral surface of well-hardened speci- 

 mens: (1) The omasal impression (Impressio omasica) is a deep central cavity below the portal 



