Morphological Variants of the Human Spleen: A Cadaveric Study

Introduction: The goal of this investigation was to study the anatomical variability of human spleen in embalmed samples. Material and Methods: This present investigation comprised 126 embalmed adult spleens, which existed at the anatomy department. The cadaveric spleens were macroscopically observed for the notches, fissures and various shapes. The dimensions of spleen like the breadth, length and thickness were also determined. Results: It was observed that, 110 spleens (87.3%) revealed notches either in the superior or inferior border. The notches were commonly observed over the superior border (104 cases, 82.5%) and rarely observed in the inferior border and found only in 16 (12.7%) cases. The fissures were present in 18 spleens over the diaphragmatic surface (14.3%). The splenic length, breadth and thickness ranged from 9 to 27 cms, 6.1 to 15.7 cms and 1.3 to 6.1 cms respectively. Conclusion: This study has provided information about the anatomical variations of spleen and its dimensions, which are enlightening to the operating surgeon. The knowledge is important during the procedures like laparotomy, laparoscopy and robotic platforms. The particulars are needed to radiologists while making a diagnosis and it will prevent the misinterpretation.