[Anastomoses of the hepatic arteries angiographic appearances (author's transl)].

On the basis of 3,000 selective arteriograms of the coeliac trunk, the authors described the radiological appearance of anastomoses existing between the hepatic arteries. The anatomical study of COUINAUD had shown their existence. The increasingly frequent use of hepatic arteriography makes the demonstration easier. Such anastomoses exist under normal conditions but are more obvious, since they are increased in size, in various pathological states, in particular when there is obstruction of a hepatic artery. The anastomoses are of two types: of small calibre and usually situated in the porta hepatis or in the upper part of the hepatic pedicle; of wide calibre, a true embryonic rest, providing a communication between branches of the hepatic arteries. Such anastomoses may function in both directions. They are of great value under pathological conditions, avoiding hepatic necrosis. They are particularly common in complications following surgery on the common or other bile ducts.