Böhler's and Gissane's angles of the calcaneus in the Saudi population

The purpose of this study is to measure Böhler s angle (BA) and Gissane s angle (GA) in the Saudi population and compare their values to the published data.

Lateral plain radiographs of 229 normal feet and ankles of 158 females and 71 males, with age range of 15-72 years, were studied retrospectively at King Khalid University Hospital, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia between 2002 and 2003. Böhler's angle and GA were measured and the mean and standard deviation of each angle were calculated. The relationship between each angle and age, gender, and side of body was tested, and compared to international figures.

The mean BA in the Saudi population was 31.21 degree with a range of 16-47 degree. The mean GA was 116.16 degree with a range of 96-152 degrees. Böhler's angle and GA are not significantly related to age, gender, or side of body. Moreover, the range of both angles was wider than that reported in the literature.

The study shows the difference between the Saudi and various other populations in regard to BA and GA, and reinforces the need to establish the normal ranges of BA and GA in a given population.