Spiral folds of cystic duct

General Information
Latin	plicae spirales ductus cystici
Greek
TA98
TA2
FMA
Details
System	Digestive system
Artery
Vein
Nerve
Lymphatic drainage
Precursor	Endoderm
Function	Regulate bile flow
Identifiers
Clinical significance
Notes

The spiral folds of the cystic duct, also known as the spiral valves of Heister, are anatomical structures located within the cystic duct. These folds are named after the German anatomist Lorenz Heister, who first described them.

Structure

The spiral folds are mucosal folds that line the interior of the cystic duct, which connects the gallbladder to the common bile duct. These folds are arranged in a spiral fashion, which helps to maintain the patency of the duct and regulate the flow of bile from the gallbladder into the common bile duct.

Function

The primary function of the spiral folds is to prevent the collapse of the cystic duct and to ensure a steady flow of bile. They act as a valve mechanism, allowing bile to flow in both directions between the gallbladder and the common bile duct, depending on the pressure differences.

Clinical significance

The spiral folds can sometimes be involved in gallstone formation or cholecystitis, where inflammation or obstruction can occur. Understanding the anatomy of these folds is important in cholecystectomy procedures, where the cystic duct is ligated and cut.

History

The spiral folds were first described by Lorenz Heister in the 18th century. They are sometimes referred to as the "valves of Heister" in his honor.

See also

• Gallbladder
• Biliary tract
• Cholecystectomy
• Cholelithiasis

References

• Heister, L. (1732). Compendium Anatomicum.
• Standring, S. (2016). Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. 41st Edition.