A Morphological Study of Variations in the Human Cadaveric Liver with Reference to Their Surgical and Radiological Significance

Abstract

Background: The liver exhibits considerable morphological and morphometric variability, which may influence radiological interpretation and surgical management. Detailed knowledge of these variations is essential to minimize diagnostic errors and operative complications, particularly in the context of advanced hepatobiliary procedures. Objectives: The present study aimed to document the morphometric parameters and morphological variations of the human cadaveric liver and to evaluate their surgical and radiological significance in a Central Indian population.Materials and Methods: A descriptive cadaveric study was conducted on 100 adult human livers obtained from embalmed cadavers in the Department of Anatomy, Index Medical College, Indore. Each specimen was subjected to detailed morphometric measurements of the right and left hepatic lobes and systematic examination of external morphological features. Variations involving lobes, fissures, and surface anatomy were recorded. Liver morphology was further categorized according to Netter’s classification. Results: The right hepatic lobe consistently demonstrated larger transverse and vertical dimensions than the left. Normal lobar morphology was observed in 72% of specimens, while 28% exhibited anatomical variations. Accessory fissures of the right lobe were the most common finding, followed by fusion of the quadrate lobe with the left lobe, lingular processes, hypoplasia, and accessory lobes. According to Netter’s classification, only Types I, V, and VI were identified, with diaphragmatic grooves (Type VI) being the most frequent variant. Types II, III, and IV were not observed. Conclusion: The study demonstrates that while classical liver anatomy predominates, a significant proportion of cadaveric livers exhibit morphological variations with important clinical implications. These variations may complicate radiological interpretation and increase surgical complexity, particularly during minimally invasive hepatobiliary procedures. Population-specific anatomical data such as those obtained in this study are valuable for improving diagnostic accuracy, refining surgical planning, and enhancing patient safety in hepatobiliary practice.