Applied Anatomical Studies on the Hepatic Ducts

Objective To study the length and diameter of the hepatic ducts as well as the relationship with the adjacent structures. Methods Measurements were made on the length, diameter and converging angle of the hepatic duct in 60 adult cadaveric livers. ABS infusion was made on 10 specimens to reveal the accessory hepatic duct. Results Compared with right hepatic duct, the left hepatic duct was much larger, shorter and vertically in position. The incidence of the presence of accessory hepatic duct was 15.7%(11/70). Significant difference was revealed in the length and diameter between the right and left hepatic ducts( P 0.01). Conclusions Attention should be paid to the presence of accessory bile ducts and the related adjacent inportant structures during the operation to avoid the injury of the cystic or hepatic arteries.