ANATOMICAL VARIATIONS OF THE THORACIC DUCT: A PRELIMINARY REPORT IN ADULT AND FETAL SPECIMENS

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
subsequent growth in the adult specimens.