What percentage of cardiac output does the liver receive?

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The liver receives a surprisingly large share of cardiac output because it has a central metabolic role and a dual blood supply that ensures both nutrient-rich and oxygen-rich blood reach hepatic tissue. At rest, about a quarter to a third of the heart’s output goes to the liver, which is commonly stated as roughly 25–30% of cardiac output. In practice, a value around 28% fits this range and is often used in teaching as a representative figure.

This inflow comes from two sources: the portal vein, bringing nutrient-laden blood from the gut and spleen (about 75% of hepatic inflow), and the hepatic artery, supplying the remaining ~25% (oxygen-rich blood). The combination meets the liver’s high demand for oxygen and substrates. The hepatic arterial buffer response also helps keep total hepatic inflow relatively stable by adjusting arterial flow in response to portal flow changes.

So, the liver’s share of cardiac output is best understood as a substantial, roughly one-quarter to one-third portion at rest, making a value around 28% a typical and reasonable figure.