Which structures are exposed in retroperitoneal exposure?

• A. Spleen, kidneys, adrenals
• B. Liver, gallbladder
• C. Stomach, pancreas
• D. Lungs, heart

Answer: (A)

Retroperitoneal exposure targets structures that lie behind the peritoneum. The kidneys and adrenal glands are classic retroperitoneal organs, accessible by opening the retroperitoneal space and reflecting the peritoneum to expose them. The spleen, though nearby, is intraperitoneal and not typically exposed in a retroperitoneal approach. The liver and gallbladder are also intraperitoneal; the stomach is intraperitoneal as well, with the pancreas largely retroperitoneal but not usually exposed in a standard retroperitoneal exposure on its own. Lungs and heart reside in the thoracic cavity. Therefore, the option that lists the structures classically exposed in retroperitoneal exposure is the one that includes the kidneys and adrenal glands.