Ultrasound anatomy of the liver

: The authors review the modern concept of liver anatomy, related to the needs of surgeons in segmental resections. Important anatomical structures are described participating in division of the liver into four basic segments. The ultrasound anatomy of portal system, hepatic veins, hepatic fissures and liver hilus are dealt with in detail. Criteria for perfect examination of the liver by ultrasound are defined and representability of key anatomical structure under optimal conditions is analyzed in a group of 100 patients. The only non-constantly represented structure was fissura interlobaris (44%). Hepatic veins proved to be the most variable structures (17%). The results show that segmental anatomy of the liver may be very well represented by ultrasound. The authors discuss the importance of perfect knowledge of anatomy for quality examination.