What structure connects the gallbladder to the liver?

The cystic duct is the structure that connects the gallbladder to the liver. It is crucial in the anatomy and function of the biliary system. The gallbladder stores and concentrates bile, which is produced by the liver, and the cystic duct allows bile to flow from the gallbladder into the common bile duct for delivery into the duodenum.

In contrast, the common bile duct is formed from the union of the cystic duct and the hepatic duct, carrying bile from both the gallbladder and liver to the duodenum. The hepatic duct, on the other hand, specifically transports bile from the liver but does not connect directly to the gallbladder. The pyloric sphincter is a muscular valve that regulates the passage of food from the stomach to the small intestine and is not related to the biliary system. Understanding the relationship between these ducts helps clarify the flow and function of bile within the digestive system.