Spiral folds of cystic duct

From WikiMD's medical encyclopedia


General Information
Latin plicae spirales ductus cystici
Greek
TA98
TA2
FMA
Details
System Digestive system
Artery
Vein
Nerve
Lymphatic drainage
Precursor Endoderm
Function Regulate bile flow
Identifiers
Clinical significance
Notes


The spiral folds of the cystic duct, also known as the spiral valves of Heister, are anatomical structures located within the cystic duct. These folds are named after the German anatomist Lorenz Heister, who first described them.

Structure

The spiral folds are mucosal folds that line the interior of the cystic duct, which connects the gallbladder to the common bile duct. These folds are arranged in a spiral fashion, which helps to maintain the patency of the duct and regulate the flow of bile from the gallbladder into the common bile duct.

Function

The primary function of the spiral folds is to prevent the collapse of the cystic duct and to ensure a steady flow of bile. They act as a valve mechanism, allowing bile to flow in both directions between the gallbladder and the common bile duct, depending on the pressure differences.

Clinical significance

The spiral folds can sometimes be involved in gallstone formation or cholecystitis, where inflammation or obstruction can occur. Understanding the anatomy of these folds is important in cholecystectomy procedures, where the cystic duct is ligated and cut.

History

The spiral folds were first described by Lorenz Heister in the 18th century. They are sometimes referred to as the "valves of Heister" in his honor.

See also

References

  • Heister, L. (1732). Compendium Anatomicum.
  • Standring, S. (2016). Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. 41st Edition.


Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Transform your life with W8MD's budget GLP-1 injections from $125.

W8mdlogo.png
W8MD weight loss doctors team

W8MD offers a medical weight loss program to lose weight in Philadelphia. Our physician-supervised medical weight loss provides:

NYC weight loss doctor appointments

Start your NYC weight loss journey today at our NYC medical weight loss and Philadelphia medical weight loss clinics.

Linkedin_Shiny_Icon Facebook_Shiny_Icon YouTube_icon_(2011-2013) Google plus


Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD