Anatomical variations of the cystic artery

Bostjan Mlakar1, Eldar M Gadzijev, Dean Ravnik

  • 1Institute of Anatomy, Medical Faculty, Ljubljana, Slovenia.

Insights

Understanding the cystic artery

Area of Science:

  • Anatomy
  • Surgical Anatomy
  • Vascular Anatomy

Background:

  • The cystic artery's origin is crucial for managing gallbladder fossa bleeding.
  • Variations in cystic artery supply can complicate surgical procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the anatomical variations in the origin of the cystic artery.
  • To provide detailed insights into the arterial supply of the gallbladder.

Main Methods:

  • Anatomical study of the arterial supply to the gallbladder.
  • Analysis of 81 liver specimens to determine cystic artery origins.

Main Results:

  • The gallbladder was supplied by a single cystic artery in 86% of cases, originating from the right hepatic artery in 53%.
  • In 14% of cases, two cystic arteries were observed, most commonly both arising from the right hepatic artery.
  • Variations included origins from sectional hepatic arteries and segmental arteries.

Conclusions:

  • The right hepatic artery is the most common origin for the cystic artery.
  • Awareness of cystic artery anatomical variations is essential for surgical safety and preventing hemorrhage.

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