Contributions to the architecture and significance of the hepatic and perihepatic fibrous structures
Maros, T.N.; Lázár, L.; Galajda, Z.
Morphologie et Embryologie 34(2): 101-107
1988
ISSN/ISBN: 0377-5038 PMID: 2968505 Document Number: 307416
The hepatic and perihepatic fibrous structures are summarily described in the literature. As compared to the classical descriptions, new data have been reported of late. In this paper, the morphological features and functional significance of these heterogeneous elements are discussed, based mainly on own investigations in human embryos, fetuses, newborns and adults. Our additional findings prove the frequent incidence of small bile ducts in the fibrous tunic and the complex building of the hilar plate, as a transitional fibrous area interposed between the hepatic stroma and the parahilar connective tissue. The fascicular composition and the supporting role of the ligamentum venosum in the portal venous flow in adults are also commented. The assumption that the Pars affixa may be considered not only an anchoring area, but also supplementary zone for vascular pathways, passing to and from the liver is supported by histologic pictures obtained by us in newborns and adults. Being a distinct fibrous territory, which includes also sporadically disposed bile ducts, Pars affixa must be further subjected to minute analyses for clarifying its biological role.