DOI: 10.4103/jasi.jasi_13_26 ISSN: 0003-2778

Morphometric Analysis and Anatomical Variations of the Radius: A Correlative Study with Clinical Implications

Hidayet Erdogan, Gülay Açar
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Introduction:

The primary aim of this study was to establish a detailed morphometric profile of the radius, to identify lateralization-related (right–left) asymmetries, and to reveal correlation patterns among morphometric parameters.

Materials and Methods:

The study was conducted on 80 dry human radius bones (40 right and 40 left) of unknown age and gender. A total of 17 morphometric parameters belonging to the proximal and distal ends were measured using a digital caliper, osteometric board, and goniometer. Variations (radial head and tuberosity shapes, Lister’s tubercle type, nutrient foramen characteristics, foraminal index) were classified. Data were analyzed using SPSS; independent samples t -test and Mann–Whitney U -test were used for lateral asymmetry ( P < 0.05).

Results:

The radial head diameter ( P = 0.015), radial tuberosity length ( P = 0.001), and distal end width ( P = 0.001) were found to be statistically significantly larger on the right side. Conversely, the radial neck circumference was found to be significantly wider on the left side ( P = 0.007). The most frequent anatomical variations were Type 1 (round) for the radial head, and the most common type of Lister’s tubercle was determined to be Type 1A (prominent radial and ulnar peaks) with a rate of 72.5%.

Discussion:

A significant right-side dominance (lateral asymmetry) exists in radius bones, particularly in load-bearing areas. These findings suggest that the contralateral radius should not be regarded as an absolute reference in surgical planning, particularly in procedures such as radial head arthroplasty and implant or plate sizing.

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