Surgical Anatomy of the Liver

Abstract

Throughout medical history, the anatomy of the liver has perplexed anatomists and surgeons alike. The complex vascular anatomy of the liver produces the capacity for rapid and life-threatening hemorrhage from the injured liver. Major liver injuries requiring operation are relatively rare. Thus, the injured liver can be a challenge even to the most-skilled surgeon. The anatomic relationships within the peritoneal cavity make the liver relatively inaccessible. Complete mobilization is necessary to deliver the liver to a position where operative repair is possible. To rapidly and adequately manage the bleeding liver, the surgeon must understand the three-dimensional anatomic relationships within the liver parenchyma.