Anthropometric characterization of spleen in children.

PURPOSE: This paper aims to characterize the 3D geometry of the child spleen which is still unknown. METHODS: An anthropological measurement protocol, based upon 3D modeling using spleen-computed tomography data, was set up. Characteristic measurements were defined to allow dimensions and spatial localization description from classical anatomical landmarks (11th dorsal vertebra and 10th left rib). RESULTS: Growth patterns showed a global enlargement without significant changes in distance to anatomical bone points. CONCLUSIONS: This preliminary study describes a validated measurement protocol based on 3D reconstructions and gives description of the child spleen during growth.