Cystic artery

The Cystic Artery is a significant artery in the human body that supplies blood to the gallbladder and the cystic duct. It is a branch of the right hepatic artery, which is a part of the celiac trunk. The cystic artery typically has a single branch, but variations can occur.

Anatomy

The cystic artery usually arises from the right hepatic artery, which is a branch of the common hepatic artery, itself a branch of the celiac trunk. It travels towards the gallbladder, crossing the common hepatic duct anteriorly. It then divides into superficial and deep branches, which further subdivide to supply the gallbladder and the cystic duct.

Variations

Anatomical variations of the cystic artery are common and can have significant implications for surgical procedures involving the gallbladder, such as cholecystectomy. Variations can occur in the number of cystic arteries, their origin, and their course.

Clinical Significance

The cystic artery is of particular importance in cholecystectomy, the surgical removal of the gallbladder. Accurate knowledge of its anatomy and variations is crucial to avoid complications during surgery.

See Also

• Gallbladder
• Cystic duct
• Right hepatic artery
• Celiac trunk
• Cholecystectomy

Cystic_artery

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  Gray's Anatomy illustration of the cystic artery
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  Diagram of the bile bladder and associated structures
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  3D Medical Animation still shot of the cystic artery
• Figure 1-1 showing the cystic artery
  Figure 1-1 showing the cystic artery