Common hepatic artery

Definition

The common hepatic artery is a major blood vessel that arises from the celiac trunk to supply oxygenated blood to the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. It plays a critical role in delivering nutrients and oxygen to these organs for metabolism and digestion.

Related terms

Celiac Trunk:

The celiac trunk is a major artery that branches off the abdominal aorta just below the diaphragm, giving rise to several key arteries including the common hepatic artery.

Hepatic Portal Vein:

This vein collects nutrient-rich blood from the digestive tract and spleen, then transports it to the liver for processing.

Gallbladder:

A small organ located beneath the liver that stores bile produced by the liver before releasing it into the small intestine for digestion