A Morphological Study on Gross Anatomical Variations of Embalmed Cadaveric Livers

Objective: To find out gross anatomical variations of embalmed cadaveric livers. Methods: Present study was conducted in dissection halls of Anatomy departments of Allama Iqbal Medical College, Lahore, Sahiwal Medical College, Sahiwal and Fatima Jinnah Medical University, Lahore during 2016-2019. In this study, 74 livers were dissected out from embalmed cadavers and preserved in 10% formalin. Different morphological variations were observed in livers which included presence of accessory lobes, accessory sulci, notches, changes in size and shape of lobes. Liver specimens were photographed and classified according to Netter's classification of morphological variations of liver. Results: The hepatic morphological variations observed included accessory fissures in the right, left, caudate and quadrate lobes of the liver, accessory lobes, elongated left lobe, hypoplastic left lobe, multiple deep diaphragmatic sulci, pons hepatis, Reidel's lobe, notched borders and bilobed caudate lobe. Conclusion: The knowledge of various variations in morphology of cadaveric livers may help the radiologists to make accurate interpretation of the radiological images, thus minimizing the chances of incorrect reporting. It may also be helpful to the hepatobiliary surgeons to be aware of the morphological variations on the liver surface to avoid surgical complications.