Biliary tree; Biliary tract; Biliary system

The biliary tree is a complex network of ducts that transport bile from the liver to the duodenum. It consists of both intrahepatic and extrahepatic components.

The intrahepatic biliary tree begins with the smallest bile ducts, known as the canals of Hering, which collect bile from hepatocytes. These canals merge into larger interlobular and septal ducts, which further coalesce into the right and left hepatic ducts. These ducts then join to form the common hepatic duct.

The extrahepatic biliary tree includes the common hepatic duct, which joins with the cystic duct from the gallbladder to form the common bile duct. The common bile duct then continues to the duodenum, where it delivers bile to aid in digestion.