Morphological variations of the lung: Accessory fissures and lobes

Abstract

Anatomical variability in the human body is not as rare as was previously hypothesised. Indeed, as recently reviewed, the term ‘norm’ in anatomy can be considered an approximation. Thus, anatomical variations occur quite often, as largely demonstrated during non‐invasive diagnosis, surgical intervention, or post mortem investigations. In the present study, we describe different anatomical variations in both the right and left lungs derived from cadavers of different ethnicities. The analysed organs were collected during dissection, and accessory lobes and fissures were observed in both the right and left lungs. Moreover, a horizontal fissure was missing from the right lung, resulting in only two lobes. Since lung anatomical variability is common in clinical practice and preclinical imaging studies can miss different morphologies, a deep and accurate knowledge of the anatomical variations of the lung is of extreme importance to avoid difficulties or changes during the surgical procedure.

Sciatic Nerve and Its Anatomical Variations: In-Depth Understanding Acquired During Dissection Classes

“…The anatomical variations can cover a wide range of body regions and anatomical structures, ranging from vasculature to organs located in different body regions. Nowadays, due to an increase in anatomical variability knowledge, it is worth noticing that “anormalities” might be considered an evolutionary leap [ 3 ]. Indeed, the "normal" anatomical variations are often invisible because they do not cause pain or difficulty [ 4 ].…”