Anomalous splenic notches: A cadaveric study with clinical importance

Objective: To study the anomalous splenic notches and discuss their clinical importance. Background: The lobulated form of the spleen in early developmental phase is represented by notches at a later period which occur at the superior border. The superior border which separates the gastric impression from the diaphragmatic surface has notches near its lateral end. Methods: Considering the fact that there is paucity of literature on the presence of splenic notches, we performed the study on 100 formalin fixed cadaveric spleens to observe the presence of notches. Results: The notches were observed on the superior and inferior border in ninety eight and two cases, respectively. The anomalous presence of fissures on the diaphragmatic surface was observed in two cases. Discussion: In view of the observations, we as anatomists feel that standard anatomy textbooks should incorporate the fact that presence of notches is confined not only to superior border but they can also be found in the inferior border. Presence of notches in the inferior border may be important for surgeons attempting splenic surgeries and radiologists interpreting CT scans. In the present study, we discuss the morphological and clinical aspect of anomalous notches and fissures in the spleen.