Anatomical Variations of the Thoracic Duct: A Preliminary Report in Adult and Fetal Specimens.
Anatomical Variations of the Thoracic Duct: A Preliminary Report in Adult and Fetal Specimens.
Lymphology. 2016 Dec;49(4):205-9
Authors: Amore M, Bernárdez R, Enríquez R, Granja S, Romeo H
Abstract
The study aim is to evaluate anatomical variations of the thoracic duct using a specialized sequential injection procedure.
The different types, frequencies, and anatomical topography were recorded and evaluated using 12 adult and 16 fetus
specimens. By employing a perfusion pump device, cadavers were sequentially perfused with acrylic colored latex first through the internal marginal vein, then the thoracic duct at the interazygous-aortic recess, and finally through the posterior tibial artery. After perfusion, thoracic ducts were identified, partially dissected, and cadavers fixed by
soaking in an aqueous solution of 5% formalin (v/v). Finally, further dissection and detailed photography were performed. Plexus shapes at different levels were clearly evident in 80% of the adult specimens. Whereas the presence of the cisterna chyli was detected in 100% of fetuses as an ampule dilatation at the beginning of the thoracic duct, in only one
adult specimen was a dilatation found at the lumbar lymphatic trunk level. Functionally it is not known whether these modified anatomical features (plexus shapes) have served to compensate (as a derivative pathway) for lymphatic hypertension in life as a reflection of lymphatic system challenges and subse...
Source: Lymphology - Category: Internal Medicine Tags: Lymphology Source Type: research