A review of the chronology of epiphyseal union in the bones at knee and ankle joint.

ABSTRACT

Determination of the age of an individual from the appearance and the fusion of the ossification centres is a well accepted fact in the field of medical and legal professions. The process of formation of bones is called as “ossification”. Ossification of bone is a diagnostic tool for estimation of age until the process is complete for the particular bone. The long bones of lower limb play a vital role in assessment of age both in living and dry remains. Many scientists have tried to conclude there observations on bones of lower limb owing to differences in regional and environmental factors. Countable differences are noticed in the appearance and fusion activities of ossification centers depending on race geographic distribution and sex. Following is a review of works carried out so far in different regions of country as well as throughout the world.