Novel morphological classification of the normal pancreatic uncinate process based on computed tomography

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Anatomy
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• The pancreatic uncinate process (UP) is a critical anatomical structure.
• Understanding its normal morphology is essential for accurate diagnosis and surgical planning.
• Computed tomography (CT) is a primary imaging modality for evaluating the pancreas.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the computed tomographic (CT) features of the normal pancreatic uncinate process (UP).
• To classify the UP into distinct types based on morphological characteristics observed on CT.
• To provide quantitative data on the dimensions of different UP types.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective analysis of CT imaging was conducted on 318 Han Chinese adults.
• Morphometric evaluation of the UP included measuring its maximal transverse diameter (MTDUP) and the pancreas head.
• The relationship between the UP and superior mesenteric vessels was also assessed.

Main Results:

• Four distinct morphological types of the normal UP were identified using CT.
• The mean MTDUP varied significantly across the types: Type I (10.83 mm), Type II (13.87 mm), Type III (17.08 mm), and Type IV (23.74 mm).
• Type III UP was the most common, observed in 56.29% of participants.

Conclusions:

• Four types of normal pancreatic uncinate process (UP) can be reliably classified using CT morphology.
• There is a significant increase in UP length from Type I to Type IV.
• Type III represents the most frequent morphology of the normal UP.