Morphometric Evaluation of Foramen Transversarium in Atlas Vertebrae among the North Indian Population

Aims and background: The foramen transversarium (FT) within the atlas vertebra plays a pivotal role in clinical anatomy, serving as a conduit for the vertebral vessels. Variations in morphometry hold clinical implications for surgical interventions, diagnostic imaging, and forensic investigations. This study aims to contribute to the understanding of FT dimensions in the North Indian population, critical for navigating challenges in neurosurgery, radiology, and forensic medicine. Materials and methods: A total of 89 atlas bones were randomly selected from the bone bank. Anteroposterior and transverse diameters (TDs) and intertransverse foramen distances (IFDs) of FT were measured using ImageJ software. Measurements were taken by two individuals to ensure accuracy, and statistical analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel 11. Results: The mean anteroposterior diameter (APD) on the right side was 7.23 mm and on the left side was 7.46 mm. TD on the right was 5.18 mm and on the left was 5.76 mm. The IFD measured 23.46 mm. While trends toward significance were observed in APD and TD, <i>p</i>-values did not reach conventional levels of significance. Conclusion: This study contributes valuable data on FT morphometry in the North Indian population, aiding surgical planning, diagnostic imaging, and forensic analyses. While the observed trends are significant, larger sample sizes and refined methodologies are recommended for a comprehensive understanding. The study's findings have direct implications for clinical practices, emphasizing the ongoing need for exploration in clinical anatomy.