Arteria hepatica

Arteria Hepatica or the Hepatic Artery is a blood vessel that supplies oxygenated blood to the liver, pylorus of the stomach, duodenum, pancreas, and gallbladder. It is a branch of the cœliac trunk, one of the major branches of the abdominal aorta.

Anatomy

The Arteria Hepatica typically arises from the cœliac trunk, but there are several anatomical variations. It usually gives off the proper hepatic artery and the gastroduodenal artery. The proper hepatic artery further divides into the left hepatic artery and right hepatic artery, which supply blood to the corresponding lobes of the liver.

Function

The primary function of the Arteria Hepatica is to supply oxygenated blood to the liver. It also provides blood to the pylorus of the stomach, duodenum, pancreas, and gallbladder. The blood supplied by the hepatic artery is rich in oxygen and nutrients, which are essential for the functioning of these organs.

Clinical Significance

The Arteria Hepatica is of significant clinical importance. Its obstruction or injury can lead to serious conditions such as hepatic artery thrombosis, which can cause liver failure. It is also a key structure that is assessed during liver transplantation.

See Also

• Cœliac trunk
• Abdominal aorta
• Proper hepatic artery
• Gastroduodenal artery
• Left hepatic artery
• Right hepatic artery
• Hepatic artery thrombosis