Which structure connects the gallbladder to the liver?

The structure that connects the gallbladder to the liver is the cystic duct. The cystic duct acts as a channel that allows bile to flow between the gallbladder, where bile is stored, and the liver, where bile is produced. When the gallbladder contracts in response to the presence of food in the digestive system, bile travels through the cystic duct into the common bile duct and then into the duodenum to aid in digestion.

Understanding the role of the cystic duct is important in sonography, especially when evaluating conditions like gallstones or cholecystitis, as any issues in this duct can impact the flow of bile and lead to symptoms or complications. The cystic duct's function distinguishes it from other ducts in the biliary system, such as the common bile duct, which carries bile from both the liver and the gallbladder to the intestine, or the hepatic duct, which transports bile out of the liver.