Computed Tomography (CT)-Based Morphometric Analysis of the Glenoid Fossa and Its Clinical Significance in the Lucknow Region, Uttar Pradesh

Background and objective The glenoid fossa is the lateral extension of the scapula's lateral angle, with a concave surface that articulates with the head of the humerus. Glenoid bone loss is frequently associated with glenohumeral instability. A thorough understanding of shoulder joint anatomy is essential, and the glenoid cavity index (GCI) provides a valuable measure for assessing the configuration and dimensions of the glenoid cavity. Restoring its normal anatomy improves joint function and reduces pain. Conventional two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) CT imaging remain the standard for evaluating the glenoid fossa and are crucial for preoperative planning in shoulder arthroplasty. This study was conducted to examine the morphometry of the glenoid fossa using CT imaging. Materials and methods CT scan data from 150 shoulder joints of 75 individuals (aged 30-70 years) were analyzed; the cohort included 35 males and 40 females. Scans were conducted using a Philips Brilliance 128-slice CT scanner at the Department of Radiodiagnosis, King George’s Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. This retrospective observational cross-sectional study included individuals who had undergone head and neck CT scans that clearly captured the shoulder joint region without any evident pathology. Glenoid width and height were measured using 3D reconstructed images, and the GCI was calculated as (width/height) × 100. Glenoid version (angle β) was assessed on 2D multiplanar images and recorded as positive for anteversion and negative for retroversion. The formula applied was \(β = δ − 90°\). Results The mean glenoid width and height on the left side were 23.04 ± 2.75 mm and 38.35 ± 4.26 mm, respectively; on the right side, they were 23.10 ± 2.45 mm and 38.14 ± 3.86 mm. The mean GCI demonstrated a statistically significant difference between males and females on the right side (p = 0.0159), whereas the difference on the left side was not significant (p = 0.064). Conclusions This CT-based study provides normative data on glenoid fossa dimensions, providing a valuable reference for surgeons and radiologists. Both sex and age should be taken into account during preoperative planning, as they are independent predictors of glenoid size, version, and index.