Radiology for surgeons: liver anatomy

The liver encompasses the portal vein, hepatic arteries, hepatic veins, and biliary ducts, all of which display considerable anatomical variation with clinical and surgical relevance. This study aimed to summarize this anatomical variability and its impact on decision-making in surgery. A review of studies and case reports was conducted, focusing on documented anatomical variations. The most commonly observed variations were highlighted using imaging findings. The study found that the anatomy of the liver's vascular and biliary systems differs in up to 50% of cases; therefore, in hepato-pancreato-biliary surgery, the surgeon's radiology knowledge and pre-operative planning with a specialized radiologist are particularly important. Pre-operative collaboration with radiologists would allow for more accurate mapping of the vascular and biliary anatomy. This review highlights the necessity of precise knowledge of liver anatomy and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between radiologists, surgeons, and oncologists to improve patient outcomes.