Study on the variations of structures of porta hepatis of liver in South Indian population

Introduction: The porta hepatis is bounded anteriorly by the quadrate lobe and posterosuperiorly by the caudate lobe. The hepatic artery with the autonomic plexus around it and the portal vein enter the liver through the porta hepatis, while the two hepatic ducts and some lymphatics emerge out from the liver through it. The porta hepatis of the liver is a very important area surgically. The knowledge of the variations in the structures passing through the porta hepatis might be of great help in reducing the risks of surgery in this area. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in the Department of Anatomy of our institution after obtaining the ethical clearance.87 liver specimens in the Department were used for the study. The liver specimens will be removed during routine dissection for medical undergraduate teaching and would be preserved in 10% formalin. Conclusion: The incidence of variations in the portal venous system can be of prime surgical and radiological importance for portocaval anastomosis and to study hemodynamic flow radiologically. This study highlights the various possible combinations of the structures at the porta hepatis and is thereby useful for the radiologists and surgeons dealing with this region.