Morphometry and morphology of radial head: implications for prosthetic design and arthroplasty

Background: Sufficient knowledge of various parameters of the radius head plays a cardinal role in various pathological conditions pertaining to radius be that reduction of fractures, designing its prosthesis, its knowledge is substantial in various such conditions. Current study was designed aiming to determine the morphometric & morphological parameters of adult human radii head in North Indian population. Methods: 100 adult radii (50 from right and 50 from left) were studied. Results: The mean weight of right radius bone was more on the left side while the mean values of total length of radius, medial length and lateral length were found to be more of right radii. The shape of radial head was found to be mostly circular. Strong significant correlation was found when total length of radius was compared with anteroposterior diameter of head (r=0.63, p=<0.05), transverse diameter of head (r= 0.66, p=<0.05) and head circumference of radius (r=0.62, p=<0.05). Very strong significant correlation between anteroposterior diameter and transverse diameter of radius head was seen (r= 0.84, p=<0.05). Conclusions: Current study advocates the importance of alignment of the morphology and morphometry of the radius head while treating several conditions related to it.