Liver Anatomy and Transplantation Notes

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering liver anatomy, function, and transplantation protocols, useful for exam preparation.

What veins are involved in cannulation for liver bypass?

Axillary vein, portal vein, IVC, and femoral vein.

Which veins are cannulated for venous drainage in liver bypass?

IVC and portal vein.

What veins can be cannulated for venous return during liver bypass?

Axillary or subclavian vein.

What is the order of anastomosis in liver transplantation?

Upper IVC -> hepatic artery -> portal vein -> biliary tract.

What are the benefits of liver transplant with VV bypass?

Increase in the an-hepatic phase.

What percentage of cardiac output does the liver receive?

30% of cardiac output.

What does the portal vein deliver to the liver?

75% of blood and 25% from the hepatic artery.

Which vein drains the liver?

The hepatic vein.

How many lobes does the liver have?

Four lobes: right, left, caudate, and quadrate.

What is the hepatic portal system?

The venous system that returns blood from the digestive tract and spleen to the liver.

How does blood flow from the digestive tract to the heart?

Drains into the hepatic portal vein, then empties into the liver, flows through hepatic veins into the IVC, and back to the heart.

Is heparin needed for liver transplants?

No, heparin is not needed.

What elevated levels indicate liver failure?

Elevated BUN and creatinine levels.

What is the portal triad composed of?

Hepatic artery, hepatic portal vein, and the hepatic ducts (bile ducts).

What do branches of the hepatic artery do?

Carry oxygenated blood to the hepatocytes.

What do branches of the portal vein carry?

Blood with nutrients from the small intestine.

What does the bile duct carry?

Bile products away from the hepatocytes to the larger ducts and gall bladder.

What is the liver in terms of anatomy?

Both a gland and an organ.

What forms the portal vein?

The union of the superior mesenteric vein and splenic vein.

What cells line the hepatic lobules?

Kupffler’s cells.

What is a contraindication to liver transplant?

Alcohol abuse.

What is the best test for hepatic function?

Urine urobilinogen.