DETERMINATION OF SCAPULAR INDEX IN HUMAN SCAPULA

Abstract

Background: Scapula is the important flat bone which plays important role in movement of shoulder girdle.  Scapular index can be used in comparative anatomy and manufacturing prosthetic products.  Present study was carried out with objective to determine the scapular index.

Methods: Fifty adult scapula were collected from Department of Anatomy, Chitwan Medical College for study. Gender and ethnicity of scapula were undefined.  Bony landmarks are well located. Scapular breadths and lengths were measured using digital vernier caliper. Scapular index was calculated. Statistical analyses were done using SPSS 16 software.

Results: Among the fifty scapulae, 52% contributes right sided scapula and 48% left sided scapula. Mean and standard deviation for scapular breadth were 95.84 mm and 3.843 mm respectively. Maximum number (48%) of scapula was found in the range of 90-< 95 mm breadth followed by 95-<100 mm (19%) and 100-<105 mm (14%). Mean and standard deviation for scapular length was 129.28 mm and 11.83 mm respectively. Maximum (22%) of scapula was found in range of 120-<125 mm followed by 125-<135 mm (18%) and 135-150mm (5%). Mean and standard deviation for scapular index were 75.32 mm and& 7.32 mm respectively. Maximum value (46%) of scapular index was found in the range of 70-<75% followed by 65-<70% (16%); 80-85% (14%); 90-<95% (10%); 60-65% (4%) and 85-90% (2%).

Conclusions: Scapular breadth, length and indices like scapular index can be used in comparative anatomy and manufacturing prosthetic products and procedure like prosthesis positioning.