Estimation of spleen volume and surface area of the newborns' cadaveric spleen using stereological methods

The purpose of this study was to compare different techniques for the estimation of spleen volume and surface area using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images, ultrasonography (USG) images and cadaveric specimen, and to evaluate errors associated with volume estimation techniques based onfluid displacement.

Five new born cadavers, aged 39.7 ± 1.5 weeks, weighted 2.220 ± 1.056 g, were included in the present study. Three different methods were used to assess the spleen volume. The vertical section technique was applied using cycloid test probes for estimation of spleen surface area in MRI.

The mean ± standard deviation of spleen volumes by fluid displacement was 4.82 ± 3.85 cm³. Volumes determined by the Cavalieri's principle using physical section and point-counting techniques were 4.45 ± 3.47 cm³ and 4.65 ± 3.75 cm³, respectively; volumes measured by USG and cadaver using ellipsoid formula were 4.70 ± 3.02 cm3 and 5.98 ± 4.58 cm³, respectively. No significant differences were found among all methods (p > 0.05). The spleen surface area was calculated as a 32.3 ± 20.6 cm² by physical sections using cadaver and also it was determined on axial, sagittal and coronal MR planes as 24.9 ± 15.2 cm², 18.5 ± 5.92 cm² and 24.3 ± 12.7 cm², respectively.

As a result, MR images allow an easy, reliable and reproducible volume and surface area estimation of normal and abnormal spleen using Cavalieri'sprinciple. We consider that our study may serve as a reference for similar studies to be conducted in future. :