A Morphological and Morphometric Study on Curvatures of Clavicle

Abstract

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.