The liver is the largest organ in the body. It is situated in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen.It is respected by the surgeons for its inherent myths as well as because it is one of the most vascular organs in the abdomen.It is an organ that seldom forgives its violation.The blood supply to the liver is peculiar in that it is supplied by portal vein,draining the intestines as well as by the hepatic artery which Predominanaly nourishes the bile veins.The blood draining away from the liver reaches the heart by means of multiple hepatic veins through the inferior vena cava.
The functions of the liver are numerous and complex :
- It is a large food factory playing a key role in the metabolism of carbohydrates ,fats & proteins.
- It is a major checkpost for micro - organisms that escape the intestinal barrier as well as for various toxins absorbed from the intestines.
- It synthesis the various protein molecules that are responsible for clotting of blood.
- It processes the breakdown products of red blood cells and excretes the end products as bile into the intestines.
- It converts food into nutrients the body can use (for example, the liver produces bile to help break down fats).
- It store fats, sugars, iron, and vitamins for later use by the body.
- It removes or chemically change drugs, alcohol, and other substances that may be harmful or toxic to the body.
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