LIVER

Liver and Associated Diseases

The liver is a vital organ and supports almost every other organ in the body. It is both the heaviest internal organ and the largest gland in the human body. Located in the right upper quadrant of the abdominal cavity, it rests just below the diaphragm, to the right of the stomach and overlies the gallbladder. The liver has a wide range of functions, including detoxification of various metabolites, protein synthesis, and the production of biochemicals necessary for digestion. Bile is also made in the liver and either drains directly into the small intestine via the common bile duct, or is temporarily stored in the gallbladder.

Because of its strategic location and multidimensional functions, the liver is also prone to many diseases that may require surgery. These include: cysts, abscesses, benign tumors, and malignant tumors.