Hepatic morphotypes. Their statistical individualization using ultrasonography.
The shape, topography, and vascular disposition of the liver depend on a subject's morphotype. The definition and classification of morphotypes was previously based on cadaver observation. In this study, 74 healthy adults (42 women, 32 males) were assessed using ultrasonographic parameters (hepatic diameters, xiphoid angle, orientation of the inferior face of the liver). The results were analyzed by discriminant analysis to differentiate the morphotypes. The three groups known by anatomists as breviligne (endomorphic), longiligne (ectomorphic), and normotype were again demonstrated and individualized in a significant manner. However, with the exception of the normotype group, fundamental differences were observed between our results and those of the anatomists. Ultrasonographic assessment shows that in the breviligne, the liver occupies the right hypochondrium and extends only slightly to the left of the midline; in the longiligne it extends into the left hypochondrium.