Common hepatic duct

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Biliary system new

Abdominal cavity

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Bilebladder

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Common Hepatic Duct is a crucial structure in the human anatomy, particularly within the digestive system. It plays a significant role in the bile drainage mechanism, which is essential for the digestion and absorption of fats. The common hepatic duct forms at the confluence of the left hepatic duct and the right hepatic duct, which drain bile from the left and right lobes of the liver, respectively. This duct then joins with the cystic duct coming from the gallbladder to form the common bile duct, which continues to the duodenum of the small intestine.

Anatomy

The common hepatic duct is typically 4 to 6 cm long and has a diameter of about 4 mm, although this can vary significantly among individuals. It is located in the upper part of the abdomen, within the lesser omentum, and descends to meet the cystic duct at the hepatoduodenal ligament. The anatomical position of the common hepatic duct makes it a vital structure in surgeries involving the biliary tract, such as cholecystectomy or liver transplantation.

Function

The primary function of the common hepatic duct is to transport bile from the liver and gallbladder to the duodenum. Bile is a critical digestive fluid that helps in the emulsification and absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K). The flow of bile is regulated by various sphincters and hormonal signals, ensuring that it is released into the duodenum when needed, such as after a fatty meal.

Clinical Significance

Several conditions can affect the common hepatic duct, leading to impaired bile flow, a condition known as cholestasis. These include:

- Gallstones: Stones formed from bile components can block the common hepatic duct, causing jaundice, pain, and potentially leading to cholecystitis or biliary colic. - Cholangiocarcinoma: A type of cancer that can occur in the bile ducts, leading to obstruction. - Primary sclerosing cholangitis: A chronic liver disease that leads to scarring and narrowing of the bile ducts. - Biliary atresia: A congenital condition where the bile ducts are abnormally narrow, blocked, or absent.

Diagnosis of common hepatic duct issues often involves imaging techniques such as ultrasound, MRI cholangiopancreatography (MRCP), or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Treatment varies depending on the underlying cause but may include surgery, endoscopic procedures, or medication.

See Also

• Liver
• Gallbladder
• Bile duct
• Digestive system