[Computed tomographic and anatomical studies on the morphology of the minor pulmonary fissure]

The morphology of the minor fissure, i.e., the shape of the upper surface of the middle lobe, was studied in 10 specimens and in 60 thoracic CT's. In 8 specimens and 54 CT's there was the arrangement typical for the right lung consisting of 3 distinct lobes. The upper surface of the middle lobe had a convex upward shape against the base of the upper lobe in all anatomical preparations and in 52 of the CT's. The position and shape of the convexity was, however, quite variable. In 2 cases the upper surface of the middle lobe was flat. In 78% the minor fissure was incomplete and in 2 cases it was absent.