[Studies on three-dimensional configuration of diaphragmatic lymphatics and absorptive mechanism of lymph from the peritoneal cavity].

Three-dimensional configuration of diaphragmatic lymphatics in five fetuses was studied by the lymphatic casts of scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope. A new resin, PAES-3, prepared by piperylene, acrylic ester and styrene was used instead of Mercox. The diaphragmatic lymphatics formed rich networks. There were two layers of lymphatic networks, i.e. the submesothelial network and the deeper network, in the muscular portion and only one layer in the tendinous portion of the diaphragm. The lymphatic networks were denser in the tendinous portion than those in the muscular portion. The lymphatic network were mainly composed of collecting lymphatic vessels, anastomosing side branches and lymphatic capillaries. The side branches often communicated the submesothelial network with the deeper network in the muscular portion. The collecting lymphatics were connected at regular intervals by way of transverse side branches in the tendinous portion. Numerous constrictions and notches showed the presence of lymphatic valves and were often found on the cast surface of the collecting lymphatic vessels and the side branches. The lymphatics extended as far as the terminal branches and can be recognized as broad, flattened and blind-ended. In present study, three-dimensional configuration of human diaphagmatic lymphatics was first described. It was suggested that the passageway of the lymph flow of the peritoneal cavity may be explained. From the peritoneal stomata, the lymph of the peritoneal cavity flowed into the channels under the peritioneum, then into the lymphatic lacunae and finally into the lymphatic networks under the diaphragmatic pleura.