Morphometric Variation of Pedicles in Typical(L4) and Atypical(L5) Human Dry Lumbar Vertebrae

Objective: The aim of the present study was to determine and compare the morphometric variation of pedicles between typical(L4) and atypical(L5) lumbar vertebrae and to compare between them. Materials & Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 200 human dry lumbar vertebrae of unknown sex among which 100 were typical (L4) and 100 were atypical (L5). It was done in the Department of Anatomy, Rangpur Medical College, Rangpur between the period of January 2024 – December 2024. The vertebrae were collected from the study materials of 1st and 2nd year MBBS and BDS students of the department of Anatomy, Rangpur Medical College, Rangpur. All the selected typical (L4) and atypical (L5) lumbar vertebrae were adult, dry, complete and showed normal anatomical features. The width and length of pedicles, inter pedicle distance were measured. All the measurements were taken using digital sliding vernier caliper and gonio-meter. Result: L5 exhibited significantly shorter pedicle height and length than L4 on both right and left sides. However, L5 had significantly greater pedicle width and interpedicular distance than L4. The transverse-pedicle angle was also significantly larger in L5. Conclusion: Significant variations were observed in pedicles, inter-pedicle distances and transverse pedicle angles. These findings offer valuable insights for safe surgical interventions, orthopedic procedures and radiological assessments. It is also important for anatomical education by expanding knowledge of diverse spinal structures aiding healthcare professionals. Medicine Today 2026, Vol.38 (2): 261-264