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Morphometry and Lymph Dynamics of Swine Thoracic Duct
Xiao Lu1, Mengjun Wang2, Ling Han1
1Division of Biomechanics and Mechanobiology, California Medical Innovations Institute, San Diego, California.
Lymphatic Research and Biology
|March 24, 2020
Summary
A study on swine characterized the thoracic duct (TD) and cisterna chyli (CC) morphologically and hemodynamically. Findings reveal a consistent pressure gradient driving lymph flow, crucial for interventionalists designing new procedures.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Anatomy
- Physiology
Background:
- The thoracic duct (TD) and cisterna chyli (CC) are critical components of the lymphatic system, yet their detailed morphometric and hemodynamic characteristics require further elucidation.
- Understanding lymphatic dynamics is essential for developing effective diagnostic and interventional strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively characterize the thoracic duct (TD) morphologically and hemodynamically in swine.
- To measure lymphatic flow and pressure gradients within the TD from the cisterna chyli (CC) to the lymphovenous junction.
Main Methods:
- In vivo hemodynamic measurements of lymphatic flow and pressure gradients in anesthetized swine.
- Ex vivo histomorphometric analysis of harvested TD, including valve morphometry using gelatin perfusion.
- Casting of the CC and afferent lymphatic vessel for detailed morphometric data acquisition.
Main Results:
- The in vivo flow rate in the TD was measured at 0.7 ± 0.49 mL/minute with an average pressure gradient of 8.1 mmHg.
- Morphometric analysis revealed TD length of 35.6 ± 2.2 cm, CC width up to 15 mm, and TD diameter ranging from 2 to 4.3 mm.
- TD valves, numbering 9-13, possess specific geometric properties and a media thickness of approximately 7 ± 3 μm, preventing lymph flow reflux.
Conclusions:
- A consistent pressure gradient within the swine TD effectively propels lymph from the CC to the jugular vein.
- The TD is a thin-walled vessel equipped with valves that prevent the backflow of lymph.
- This detailed morphometric and hemodynamic data provides a crucial foundation for interventionalists in designing novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for lymphatic system interventions.
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