Body of gallbladder

The body of the gallbladder is the main central segment of the gallbladder, situated between the fundus (the rounded, blindended tip) and the infundibulum/neck (the tapered portion leading to the cystic duct).

• The body has two surfaces: a free peritoneal surface and a hepatic surface that is partially fused to the liver within the gallbladder fossa.

• The wall thickness of the body is similar to that of the fundus and significantly thicker than the neck. [4]

• The mucosal epithelium of the body consists of tall columnar cells specialized for bile concentration and mucus secretion, with epithelial cells approximately 20% taller than those in the neck.

• Histologically, the body region is defined as the area distal to the neck and is characterized by the absence of tubuloalveolar mucus glands (which are present in the neck), though subepithelial glands may be found on the hepatic surface.

• The cystic artery runs along the body from the neck toward the fundus, giving off branches that supply both the gallbladder wall and, on the hepatic surface, penetrate into the liver parenchyma.

The body is the largest functional segment of the gallbladder and plays a central role in bile storage and concentration through its absorptive epithelium and rich subepithelial capillary network.