Topographical Variations between Splenic Flexure and Spleen: A Study with CT Image-Based Reconstruction

Matteo Lavazza, Stefano Rausei, Vincenzo Pappalardo, Davide Inversini, Monica Mangini, Anna Maria Ierardi, Angkoon Anuwong, Hoon Yub Kim, Gianpaolo Carrafiello, Gianlorenzo Dionigi

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    1 Citation (Scopus)

    Abstract

    INTRODUCTION: An issue that is seldom seen in the literature relates the detailed relationship of the splenic flexure (SF) and the spleen-both carefully examined-with a prospective approach in patients undergoing computer tomography (CT) scan.

    MATERIALS AND METHODS: SF localization has been searched and examined in 120 consecutive CT scans. Several different variables (age, gender, BMI, indication of CT scan, etc.) have been considered. In cooperation with the Radiology Division, we brought to completion a dedicated topographic outline, with the purpose of providing a detailed classification for SF localization.

    RESULTS: The SF lies, in 52% of cases, in what we called the inferior (I) position, below the spleen. Other categories of our classification were anterior (A) and posterior (P) positions, which were found respectively in 42% and 8% of analyzed cases. Considering all the variables given, we did not find any significant statistical correlation (p > 0.05).

    CONCLUSIONS: This study was carried out to classify types of SF in terms of its positional relationship with the spleen. We investigated 120 CT scans and classified the SF into three types, according to its localization: inferior (I), anterior (A), and posterior (P) types. A better understanding of the anatomic variability in SF may be useful for minimizing complications and performing an accurate surgical dissection.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)117-121
    Number of pages5
    JournalSurgical technology international
    Volume31
    Publication statusPublished - 2017 Oct 12

    ASJC Scopus subject areas

    • General Medicine

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