The LI vertebral level is marked by the transpyloric plane, which cuts transversely through the body midway between the jugular notch and pubic symphysis, and through the ends of the ninth costal cartilages (Fig. 4.179). At this level are: the beginning and upper limit of the end of the duodenum, the hila of the kidneys, the neck of the pancreas, and the origin of the superior mesenteric artery from the aorta.