Anatomy and Functions of the Liver

Study Notes

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

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