The liver receives blood from two main sources: the hepatic artery and the portal vein. According to provided information, total blood flow to the liver is approximately 1.5L/minute, representing almost 25% of cardiac output.
Sources of Blood Flow
Blood Source | Percentage of Liver Blood Supply | Description |
---|---|---|
Hepatic Artery | 30% | Supplies oxygenated blood to the liver, essential for its metabolic functions. |
Portal Vein | 70% | Carries nutrient-rich blood from the digestive system (stomach, intestines, spleen, and pancreas) to the liver for processing and detoxification. |
In summary, both arterial and venous blood flow to the liver, ensuring it receives both oxygenated blood for its own needs and nutrient-rich blood from the digestive system for processing. The portal vein accounts for the majority of the liver's blood supply.