Morphometric Variation of Adult Human Clavicle - A Tool for Gender Determination

Introduction: Bones can reflect the basic framework of human body and provide valuable information about the biological identity of the deceased. They often, survive the morphological alteration, decay/mutation and decomposition insults. An in depth, knowledge and analysis of variation in clavicular length, midclavicular circumference and weight is imperative for both clinical and forensic anthropological perspectives. Objectives: The present study was done to determine morphometric variability of adult human clavicles by using length, weight and midclavicular circumference parameters. Materials and Methods: 300 pairs of adult human clavicles of known sex obtained from cadaveric dissection and bony collections of anatomy department were utilized for the study. The length, weight and midclavicular circumference were measured. The data obtained was statistically analysed. Results: Gender specific statistical analysis for length, weight and midclavicular circumference was found to be highly significant. The side specific significance was found only in male and in female clavicles for weight and midclavicular circumference respectively. No side specific significance found for length of clavicle. Conclusions: The present study provides morphometric data for North Indians and compares observations with other populations. The study establishes that length, weight and midclavicular circumference of clavicle have a dimorphic potential. This fact can play a decisive role in forensic identifications and clinical interventions. The results are of immense significance for anatomists, orthopedic surgeons and the forensic anthropologists in their professional endeavors.

A Morphological and Morphometric Study on Curvatures of Clavicle

Introduction: The clavicle is subcutaneous throughout its length and makes a prominent aesthetic contribution to the contour of the neck and upper chest. The use of clavicular curvature analysis offers a new dimension in assessment of the functional morphology of the clavicle and its relationship to the shoulder complex. Objectives: The present study was done to determine gender and side specific variations in the medial angle, lateral angle, anterior lateral length and height, index of curvature and sinuosity of the clavicle. Material and Method: 300 pairs (600 clavicles) of known sex adult clavicles were obtained from cadaveric dissection and bony collections of anatomy department. The medial and lateral angle, anterior lateral curve height and length were measured. Also, index of curvature and sinuosity were calculated. The data obtained was statistically analysed. Results: There exists a statistically significant gender specific variation for index of curvature, anterior lateral curve length and height and index of sinuosity whereas medial and lateral angle values were found to be statistically insignificant. Conclusions: The study establishes morphometric criterion for clavicular curvatures in North Indians and compares observations with other populations giving a special emphasis on influence of sex factor. The curvatures should be taken in to account while performing clinical procedure like intramedullary fixation and plate fixation of fractures.