Hepatic failure

Hepatic duct is a term used in anatomy to refer to one of two ducts in the liver that transport bile from the liver to the gallbladder and small intestine. The two hepatic ducts are the left hepatic duct and the right hepatic duct, which merge to form the common hepatic duct.

Anatomy

The liver is divided into two main lobes, the left lobe and the right lobe. Each lobe has its own hepatic duct. The left hepatic duct collects bile from the left lobe of the liver, while the right hepatic duct collects bile from the right lobe. These two ducts merge to form the common hepatic duct.

The common hepatic duct then joins with the cystic duct from the gallbladder to form the common bile duct, which carries bile to the small intestine. This process is crucial for the digestion and absorption of dietary fats.

Function

The primary function of the hepatic ducts is to transport bile from the liver, where it is produced, to the gallbladder and small intestine. Bile is a fluid that aids in the digestion and absorption of fats in the small intestine. It also helps to eliminate waste products from the liver.

Clinical significance

Diseases and conditions that can affect the hepatic ducts include gallstones, cholangitis (inflammation of the bile ducts), and cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer). These conditions can block the flow of bile, leading to symptoms such as jaundice, abdominal pain, and liver damage.

Gallstones are the most common cause of hepatic duct obstruction. They can form in the gallbladder and then move into the bile ducts, blocking the flow of bile. Treatment for gallstones may include medication to dissolve the stones, or surgery to remove the gallbladder.

Cholangitis is an infection of the bile ducts that can occur if the flow of bile is blocked. It can cause fever, jaundice, and abdominal pain. Treatment typically involves antibiotics to clear the infection.

Cholangiocarcinoma is a rare type of cancer that forms in the cells lining the bile ducts. It can cause symptoms such as jaundice, weight loss, and abdominal pain. Treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

See also

• Bile duct
• Gallbladder
• Liver