MORPHOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF CLAIVICUAR ANGLES AND ITS VARIATIONS IN NIGERIAN POPULATION: APPLICATION AND IMPORTANCE

*Benwoke Ihunwo IW

ABSTRACT

The dependence of morphometric values of human parts is very vital in the construction, replacement and treatment of affected parts, be it bone or soft tissues. The purpose of this study was to scientifically analyze the clavicular angles and to further evaluate its applications in event of fractures, dislocations or diseases. Clavicular angles were evaluated using a total of 40 clavicle (25 males and 15 females), extracted from adult human bodies, which were all macerated and dried. These clavicles were sourced from the Anatomy Department of various Universities in South-South and South-Eastern region of Nigeria. Degraded, deformed fractured clavicles with associated tumors were excluded. The clavicular angles (medial, lateral and total angle) were Measure with pencil, protractor, paper and metric rule, the angles were measured in degrees. The data were analyzed using statistical package for social sciences (IBM(R) version 23 SPSS, Inc, Chicago, IL). Confidence interval was set at 95% and p- ≤ 0.005 was considered significant. The result showed that the (medial angle) for male right clavicle was 150.52±6.92and left was 148.72 ±6.96 while that of female right clavicle was 134.13±7.84and 134.67±6.89. The lateral angle for male right clavicle was 145.92±5.74and left was 148.16±5.47, while that of female right clavicle was 136.53±7.85 and that of left clavicle was 138.80±7.80. The total angle for male right clavicle was 296.44±11.98 and that of left was 296.88±11.31, while the total angle for female right clavicle was 270.67±15. And of left was 273.47 ±14.64. The clavicular angle (medial, lateral and total angle) showed statistical difference with varying correlating values for males and females (p <0.001). This study has provided morphometric data base of the clavicular angles of the Nigerian population which could be a useful guide to orthopedic- implant manufacturer and orthopedic surgeons in determining the correct size and shape of plates and intramedullary nails in treatment of clavicular fracture.

Keywords: Clavicle, morphometric, medial angle lateral angle total angle, statistical difference.