Radiographic evaluation of Baumann angle in North Indian paediatric population: a cross-sectional study

Background: Baumann angle is an essential radiographic parameter used for assessing coronal alignment of the distal humerus in pediatric elbow injuries. It plays a critical role in evaluating fracture reduction, particularly in supracondylar fractures. However, normative values vary across populations and require regional validation. To determine the normative values of Baumann angle in North Indian pediatric population and analyze its variation with age, sex and side. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in the Department of Orthopaedics at GSVM Medical College. A total of 289 children aged 3–13 years with normal elbow radiographs were included. Baumann angle was measured on standardized anteroposterior radiographs. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and unpaired t-test. Results: The mean Baumann angle was 70.42°±5.28°. Males had significantly higher values (72.26°±5.25°) compared to females (68.05°±4.29°) (p < 0.05). Age-wise analysis showed minimal variation, indicating stability across growth. Side-to-side differences were not clinically significant. Conclusions: Baumann angle is a reliable and consistent parameter in pediatric elbow assessment with significant sex-based variation but minimal age dependency. Establishing population-specific reference values enhances diagnostic accuracy in pediatric elbow trauma.