A study of depth of acetabulum from adult human hip bones - a cross sectional study

ABSTRACT

Background: Most of the studies described anatomical parameters on X-ray. Here the measurements were carried out on adult human cadavers. This study will essentially help orthopedicians to make suitable hip joint prosthesis, also help forensic expert in disputed sex and help to understand biomechanics of hip joint. These parameters help us to understand etiopathogenesis of disease like osteo-arthritis of hip joint. Methodology: A total 60 hip joints were studied in 20 male and 10 female cadavers. Measurements taken with soft tissue in situ for depth of acetabulum. These measurements were taken using vernier caliper and a steel scale. Mean values of measurements were recorded and compared between males and females. The mean values also compared with right and left side for males and females. Results: The mean depth of acetabulum was found to be 31.78 mm in males and 29.70 mm in females. The mean values of parameter were found to be greater in males than in females.The mean values of parameters was found to be greater on right side in both males and females. Conclusions: The mean values of depth of acetabulum were found to be significantly greater in males than in females. The parameters of hip joint are immense importance to orthopaedicians, radiologists, and prosthetists. These values are useful to identify the fragment of bone for sex determination sent to forensic expert.The acetabulum was relatively deeper in this study compared to other similar study. This explains why congenital subluxation is rare in Indians. These parameters will help the orthopaedicians, prosthetist to design suitable hip prosthesis.