Anatomy and Functions of the Liver

Anatomy

• Location: Right upper quadrant of the abdominal cavity, beneath the diaphragm
• Shape: Irregular, wedge-shaped organ
• Divided into:
  • Lobes: Right and left lobes, separated by the falciform ligament
  • Segments: 8 functional segments, each with its own blood supply and bile drainage
• Surface features:
  • Anterior surface: Covered by the peritoneum, attached to the diaphragm by the coronary ligament
  • Posterior surface: In contact with the right kidney, adrenal gland, and inferior vena cava
• Blood supply:
  • Hepatic artery: Branch of the celiac artery, supplies oxygenated blood
  • Hepatic portal vein: Carries nutrient-rich blood from the digestive system
• Bile drainage:
  • Bile ducts: Merge to form the common hepatic duct, which joins the cystic duct to form the common bile duct

Functions

• Detoxification: Removes toxins and waste products from the blood
  • Breaks down ammonia into urea
  • Converts bilirubin into bile
• Metabolism: Regulates carbohydrate, protein, and fat metabolism
  • Stores glycogen and releases glucose into the bloodstream
  • Converts amino acids into urea and other nitrogen-containing compounds
• Production: Produces various substances, including:
  • Bile: Aids in fat digestion and absorption
  • Cholesterol: Essential for cell membrane structure and function
  • Proteins: Albumin, clotting factors, and lipoproteins
  • Vitamins: Vitamin D, vitamin K, and other fat-soluble vitamins
• Storage: Stores vitamins, minerals, and glycogen
• Immune function: Participates in the immune response by removing pathogens and toxins from the blood
• Regulation: Regulates blood clotting, hormone production, and blood sugar levels