Anatomy and Physiology of the Liver and Biliary System

Comprehensive flashcards covering liver anatomy, ligaments, blood supply, biliary system, and clinical disorders based on the lecture transcript.

How much does the liver weigh in an average adult, and what percentage of body weight does it represent?

The liver weighs approximately $1500\,g$ ($1.5\,kg$) and accounts for approximately $2.5\%$ of adult body weight.

What is the proportional size of the liver in a mature fetus compared to an adult?

In a mature fetus, the liver is proportionately twice as large, accounting for $5\%$ of body weight because it serves as a hematopoietic organ.

Between which ribs does the liver normally lie on the right side of the body?

The normal liver lies deep to ribs $7-11$ on the right side.

Which primary nutrient absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract is NOT initially conveyed to the liver by the portal venous system?

Fat (lipids) are the exception; all other nutrients are conveyed to the liver via the portal venous system.

How is the (common) bile duct formed?

The bile duct is formed by the union of the cystic duct and the common hepatic duct.

What are the four lobes of the liver according to external anatomical division?

The two anatomical lobes (right and left) and the two accessory lobes (quadrate and caudate).

What fetal structure is the ligamentum teres hepatis (round ligament) a remnant of?

It is the fibrous remnant of the umbilical vein.

What is the fibrous remnant of the fetal ductus venosus called?

Ligamentum venosum.

Where is the 'bare area' of the liver located, and why is it called that?

It is located on the diaphragmatic surface where the liver makes contact with the diaphragm; it is called 'bare' because it is not covered by visceral peritoneum.

What structures form the portal triad?

The hepatic portal vein ($HPV$), hepatic artery ($HA$), and bile duct ($BD$).

What percentage of blood is supplied to the liver by the hepatic portal vein versus the hepatic artery?

The hepatic portal vein supplies $75-80\%$ of the blood, while the hepatic artery supplies $20-25\%$.

What is the hepatorenal recess (Morison pouch)?

It is a posterosuperior extension of the subhepatic space lying between the right visceral surface of the liver and the right kidney and suprarenal gland.

What dilation is formed when the bile duct and main pancreatic duct unite?

The hepatopancreatic ampulla.

Which sphincter controls the entry of bile into the ampulla and duodenum?

The sphincter of the bile duct (L. ductus choledochus).

What occurs pathologically during liver cirrhosis?

There is progressive destruction of hepatocytes and replacement of those cells by fat and fibrous tissue accompanying regenerative nodules.

What are the common clinical signs of severe hepatic dysfunction mentioned in the text?

Jaundice, cholestasis, hypoalbuminaemia, hyperammonemia, hypoglycaemia, palmar erythema, spider angiomas, hypogonadism, gynecomastia, weight loss, and muscle wasting.

What are the five main viral classifications of hepatitis?

Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E.

Where do the hepatic veins open into after draining the central veins of the hepatic parenchyma?

They open into the Inferior Vena Cava ($IVC$) just inferior to the diaphragm.