common hepatic duct
The common hepatic duct is a vital structure in the human biliary system. It is formed by the merging of the right and left hepatic ducts, which drain bile from the liver. This duct transports bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver, to the gallbladder and the duodenum, aiding in the digestion of fats.
Located near the liver, the common hepatic duct is approximately 4 cm long. It eventually joins with the cystic duct from the gallbladder to form the common bile duct, which further carries bile into the small intestine. Proper functioning of this duct is essential for effective digestion.