Study liver anatomy and function with our medical students test. Engage with detailed multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Prepare effectively for your test!

Multiple Choice

The hepatic artery contributes approximately what fraction of liver blood flow in a healthy adult?

The liver has a dual blood supply, with most inflow coming from the portal vein and a smaller portion from the hepatic artery. In a healthy adult, about 75% of hepatic blood flow comes from the portal vein and roughly 25% from the hepatic artery. This arrangement provides a vast supply of nutrient-rich blood while still delivering the oxygen-rich arterial blood needed for hepatocyte metabolism. The hepatic arterial buffer response helps keep overall liver perfusion stable when portal flow changes. It’s also worth noting that, although the arterial portion is smaller, it carries a higher oxygen content, contributing significantly to the liver’s oxygen needs.

The liver has a dual blood supply, with most inflow coming from the portal vein and a smaller portion from the hepatic artery. In a healthy adult, about 75% of hepatic blood flow comes from the portal vein and roughly 25% from the hepatic artery. This arrangement provides a vast supply of nutrient-rich blood while still delivering the oxygen-rich arterial blood needed for hepatocyte metabolism. The hepatic arterial buffer response helps keep overall liver perfusion stable when portal flow changes. It’s also worth noting that, although the arterial portion is smaller, it carries a higher oxygen content, contributing significantly to the liver’s oxygen needs.