Our body is full of vital fluids that regulate functions within it. It was previously thought that the imbalance between those fluids is the basis of all diseases, which was called the theory of the four humors, but it has long been disproved. However, it is a fact that they hold significant importance in diseases. Bile is among the four and the system that helps in its formation and excretion is known as the hepatobiliary system.
What is Bile?
Bile is a viscid liquid that is secreted by liver cells, also known as hepatocytes. It consists of bile salts and acids which result from the breakdown of hemoglobin, the main protein of red blood cells. Bile then flows through the bile ducts and into the small intestines, the longest part of our gastrointestinal system.
Bile Canalicular System
When liver cells secrete bile, it starts flowing in the small canaliculi that originate between liver cells. These small canaliculi then form larger canals and then ductules and ducts. This ends up forming two large bile ducts known as the right and left hepatic ducts and then the common bile duct.
The gall bladder is a sac-like organ that is found under the liver, and its main function is to store bile. Bile flows out of the gall bladder through a duct called the cystic duct and then into the common bile duct. The common bile duct is the main outflow of bile, and its obstruction can cause jaundice.
