The liver has a unique dual blood supply:
- Hepatic artery: This delivers oxygenated blood from the general circulation, providing the liver with the oxygen it needs to function.
- Hepatic portal vein: This delivers deoxygenated blood from the small intestine, carrying nutrients absorbed from the digestive system.
This dual supply allows the liver to perform its many vital functions, including:
- Filtering the blood: The liver removes waste products, toxins, and drugs from the blood.
- Producing bile: This helps with digestion and the absorption of fats.
- Storing glucose: The liver regulates blood sugar levels by storing excess glucose and releasing it when needed.
- Synthesizing proteins: The liver produces important proteins, such as albumin and clotting factors.
The liver receives about 25% of the cardiac output, despite only making up 2.5% of body weight. This highlights the liver's significant role in the body's overall circulation and metabolism.
