Hepatic falciform artery: angiographic observations and significance

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study was to assess the angiographic incidence and appearance of the hepatic falciform artery (HFA) and discuss its clinical significance.

Methods: Hepatic angiograms of 53 patients obtained with digital subtraction angiography were prospectively evaluated with regard to incidence, anatomic features, and flow speed of the HFA. We analyzed whether the background of chronic liver disease affected the incidence of the HFA. Transcatheter arterial chemoinfusion or chemoembolization for liver tumors was performed in 33 patients. We noted the occurrence of supraumbilical skin complications.

Results: The HFA was observed in 13 (24.5%) of 53 patients on celiac or common hepatic angiograms. The blood flow of the HFA was slower than that of the peripheral hepatic arteries in all patients. No significant difference in the incidence of HFA between the 34 patients with chronic liver disease and the 19 patients with normal livers was found. One treated patient with an HFA and a history of gastrectomy developed a supraumbilical red skin rash.

Conclusion: The angiographic incidence of the HFA is more common than previously reported. The delayed and persistent opacification of the HFA on hepatic angiograms caused by its slow blood flow is considered the key to its identification.