leverarterie

Leverarterie, commonly known as the hepatic artery, is the main arterial supply to the liver. It forms part of the hepatic triad in the hepatoduodenal ligament, alongside the portal vein and the common bile duct. The hepatic artery proper provides oxygenated blood to the liver parenchyma and to the biliary system, while the portal vein supplies most of the liver’s blood flow but with less oxygen.

Origin and course: The hepatic artery proper arises from the common hepatic artery, which originates from the celiac trunk. After giving off the gastroduodenal artery, the common hepatic artery becomes the hepatic artery proper. It ascends in the hepatoduodenal ligament and enters the liver, where it divides into the right and left hepatic arteries. The cystic artery, which supplies the gallbladder, typically branches from the right hepatic artery.

Distribution and function: The right and left hepatic arteries distribute oxygenated blood to their respective lobes of the liver. Although the hepatic arterial system provides a smaller share of the liver’s total blood flow (roughly 25–35%), it contributes the majority of the oxygen delivered to liver tissue, because portal venous blood is relatively less oxygenated. The portal vein remains essential for nutrient-rich blood to the liver.

Variations: Anatomical variations are common. Replaced or accessory hepatic arteries may originate from the superior mesenteric artery or the left gastric artery, among other sources. Such variants are clinically relevant for liver surgery and interventional radiology.

Clinical relevance: Knowledge of hepatic arterial anatomy is important in liver transplantation, hepatic resections, and radiologic procedures. Complications include hepatic artery thrombosis and bile duct ischemia if arterial supply is compromised. Imaging modalities include Doppler ultrasound, CT angiography, and MR angiography.