Morphology and some biomechanical properties of human liver and spleen

The aim of the study was an experimental determination of some morphological and mechanical properties of human liver and spleen (amount of collagen in organ capsules, their critical tension and density), followed by a definition of the threshold of critical acceleration, above which the organs can be injured during a car crash. Experiments were done on 33 fresh cadavers (18 males, 15 females; age 3 months to 88 years), and completed by sled tests on dummies testing the loads of both hypochondrial regions protected by air bags and/or seat belts. Results obtained were the following: (1). liver: capsule collagen 14-35%, critical tension 0.066-0.386 MPa, density 0.92-1.19 g/ml, critical acceleration 48-155 g; (2). spleen: capsule collagen 1.8-24.4%, critical tension 0.022-0.652 MPa, density 0.85-1.25 g/ml, critical acceleration 33-149 g. Loads of both hypochondrial regions measured on dummies during a predefined sled test were 34-67 g. Results obtained were evaluated qualitatively and discussed from the point of view of their possible use in future passive safety engineering and design calculations.