Evaluation of the Effects of Fovea Capitis Femoris Localization and Morphometry on the Femoral Head

Background: The fovea capitis femoris (FCF) is a distinct depression on the femoral head, serving as the inser-tion point for the ligamentum capitis femoris and potentially allowing vascular entry. Avascular necrosis and degenerative illnesses, as well as hip biomechanics, may be impacted by anatomical differences of the FCF. This study aimed to analyze the morphometric features and quadrant-based localization of the FCF and assess their relationships with femoral head geometry. Materials and Methods: Seventy-one adult dry femurs were examined. The mediolateral images were standar-dized. Morphometric parameters—including transverse and longitudinal diameters, depth, area, and perimeter—were measured using a digital caliper and ImageJ. Femoral head surface area and perimeter were also record-ed. The location of the FCF was determined using a quadrant-based model. Statistical analysis involved ANOVA and Hochberg’s GT2 for post-hoc test. Results: Type II was the most common FCF configuration (64.8%), while Type I, III, and V were each found in 7.0% of cases. Type V showed the highest area and perimeter values, whereas Type I had the lowest. Signifi-cant differences were observed among types for longitudinal length (p = 0.005), area (p = 0.001), and perime-ter (p = 0.001). Type I exhibited a significantly more compact profile, possibly indicating reduced ligament attachment and vascular ingress. Conclusions: FCF morphology varies according to its structural type and may influence both ligamentous an-chorage and vascular supply. Understanding these variations may aid in surgical planning and radiological assessment, particularly in procedures involving the femoral head.