Anatomy of the liver:

• Located predominantly in the RUQ.
• The liver has diaphragmatic (superior, anterior) and visceral surfaces (posterior/inferior).
• The anterior aspect of the liver is attached to the anterior abdominal wall by the falciform ligament. The falciform ligament is the anatomical division of the left and right lobes of the liver. This anatomical division DOES NOT coincide with the functional division of the liver.
• Functionally, the liver is divided into right and left lobes by the fossa of the gallbladder and IVC on the posterior/inferior side.
• Caudate lobe: The caudate lobe lies superiorly between the ligamentum venosum and IVC. Functionally, it is not related to either right or left lobes.
• Quadrate lobe: The quadrate which lies between the ligamentum teres and fossa of the gallbladder. Functionally, it is related to the left lobe.
• The right lobe of the liver is bigger than the left lobe.

The liver is comprised of millions of lobules (polygonal) which contain 3 visible components:

• Portal triads: Located on the periphery of the lobules (the 6 corners). Comprised of an hepatic arteriole, portal venule and bile duct.
• A central vein: Located in the centre of the lobules. Collects blood that is flowing through the sinusoids.
• Sinusoids: Spaces between the hepatocytes. Blood from the hepatic arteries and portal vein mixes here (this mixture is used by the hepatocytes).
• Hepatocytes: Cuboidal epithelial cells. Perform most of the liver’s functions: Metabolism, storage, filtration and bile production.

Blood supply to the liver:

• The porta hepatis is the entry point for the hepatic arteries, portal vein and the exit of hepatic ducts.
• The blood enters the liver via the porta hepatis through two vessels: 1) Hepatic arteries and 2) Portal veins.