Morphological Variations of the Human Liver: A Cadaveric Study With Clinical Correlations in a South Indian Population

Introduction The liver is the largest gland and one of the most vital organs in the human body, performing essential metabolic, detoxification, and synthetic functions. Although the general anatomy of the liver is well described, morphological variations of its lobes and surfaces are frequently encountered. These variations may include accessory lobes, accessory fissures, diaphragmatic grooves, and unusual shapes of hepatic lobes. Such anatomical variations may mimic pathological lesions on imaging studies or complicate hepatobiliary surgical procedures. Therefore, understanding these variations is crucial for anatomists, radiologists, and surgeons to ensure accurate diagnosis and safe surgical planning. Materials and methods This cross-sectional descriptive cadaveric study was conducted on 40 human liver specimens obtained from the Department of Anatomy, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India. Specimens with severe pathological damage or advanced decomposition were excluded. Each liver specimen was carefully examined macroscopically to identify morphological variations in the lobes and surfaces. Variations such as accessory lobes, accessory fissures, diaphragmatic grooves, and pons hepatis were documented. Morphometric measurements, including length, width, and depth of accessory fissures and grooves, were recorded using standard measuring instruments. The observations were analyzed and presented as frequencies and percentages. Results Morphological variations were observed in 19 (47.5%) of the examined specimens. The left lobe demonstrated the most frequent variation, with a tongue-like projection present in 16 (40%) of specimens. Variations of the right lobe were observed in 6 (15%) of cases, including deep renal impressions, hypoplastic right lobe, elongated right lobe, and accessory lobes. The caudate lobe showed variations in shape, including rectangular, bilobed, and pyriform. Quadrate lobe variations were relatively uncommon and noted in 3 (7.5%) of specimens. Accessory fissures were frequently observed, particularly in the right lobe (23; 57.5%). Diaphragmatic grooves were present in 13 (32.5%) of specimens, while pons hepatis was identified in 9 (22.5%) of cases. Conclusion Morphological variations of the liver are relatively common and may significantly influence radiological interpretation and hepatobiliary surgical procedures. Awareness of these variations is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective surgical planning, thereby reducing the risk of misinterpretation and intraoperative complications.