Distal radius morphometry of volar curvature along with scaphoid and lunate facet inclinations and ulnar variance in the Anatolian population

Abstract

This study evaluates the morphometric characteristics of the volar distal radius, specifically volar curvature, scaphoid and lunate facet inclinations, and ulnar variance, in the Anatolian population. By identifying these population specific morphological variations, the study seeks to support improved anatomical compatibility of volar implants and enhance surgical planning for distal radius fracture fixation. Morphometric measurements were analyzed retrospectively on three-dimensional computed tomography images of 103 intact distal radii. Standardized sagittal sections were created through the midpoints of the scaphoid and lunate fossae, and volar curvature was quantified as the angle between the radial shaft axis and the volar cortex at 1 cm and 2 cm proximal to the distal radius volar rim on each section. Volar inclination angles were measured at 1 cm and 2 cm. Additionally, volar width (G), scaphoid facet inclination (SFI), lunate facet inclination (LFI), interfacet angle (IFA), and ulnar variance were evaluated. Volar curvature measured 1 cm and 2 cm proximal to the scaphoid and lunate fossae was significantly greater in males than females (p < .05). The mean transverse volar width was 26.5 mm, with no significant differences according to gender, age, or laterality (p > .05). The mean ulnar variance was - 2.0 +/- 2.2 mm, while the mean LFI, SFI, and IFA were - 0.1 degrees +/- 8.4 degrees, 26.1 degrees +/- 6.9 degrees, and 24.2 degrees +/- 10.4 degrees, respectively. This study demonstrates notable anatomical variations in the volar distal radius within the Anatolian population, particularly in volar curvature, scaphoid and lunate facet inclinations, and ulnar variance. These population specific morphometric differences underscore the importance of integrating multiple volar parameters into preoperative planning, as they may directly influence implant selection and improve the accuracy of distal radius fracture fixation.