Specific Considerations with Liver Disease - Hepatic Anatomy

Liver Structure

Liver Structure

1. The anatomic unit of the liver is lobule. The lobule is composed of hexagonal plates of hepatocytes and portal triads (terminal portal vein, hepatic artery, and bile duct branch) surrounding a central hepatic vein.
2. Hepatocytes are classified by their position in relation to their portal triad. Those closest to the triad are labeled Zone 1 cells (periportal). These cells receive the most oxygen and nutrients and are responsible for most nitrogen metabolism, oxidation, and gluconeogenesis. Zone 2 is a transitional area. Zone 3 hepatocytes (pericentral) are the farthest from the triad and are at the greatest risk for ischemic injury.