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Are there 2 livers?

Published in Human Anatomy 1 min read

No, a human only has one liver. However, the liver is divided into two main lobes.

Liver Lobes Explained

The liver isn't two separate organs, but rather a single organ with distinct anatomical divisions.

  • Two Main Lobes: The liver is divided into a larger right lobe and a smaller left lobe.

    • Right Lobe: Significantly larger than the left lobe.
    • Left Lobe: Smaller and more flattened.
  • Segmentation: Each lobe is further divided into segments. These segments function somewhat independently, having their own vascular inflow, outflow, and biliary drainage. This allows surgeons to remove segments without affecting the function of the remaining liver tissue.

  • Function as a Single Organ: Despite the lobar divisions, the liver functions as a single, integrated organ responsible for crucial processes like detoxification, metabolism, and the production of essential substances.

Therefore, while the liver has two lobes, it's important to remember that it functions as one organ.

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