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Updated: Jun 15, 2026

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Clinical Anthropometrics and Body Composition from 3-Dimensional Optical Imaging
Published on: June 7, 2024
Computer-assisted 3-dimensional anthropometry of the scaphoid.
Wolfgang Pichler1, Gunther Windisch, Gottfried Schaffler
1Department of Traumatology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria. wolfgang.pichler@klinikum-graz.at
Orthopedics
|March 3, 2010
Summary
This study measured scaphoid bone dimensions using CT scans, revealing significant size differences between men and women. Understanding these anatomical variations is crucial for scaphoid fracture fixation and nonunion treatment.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Anatomy
- Radiology
Background:
- Scaphoid fracture fixation and nonunion treatment are common surgical procedures.
- Surgeons require detailed knowledge of scaphoid anatomy for successful outcomes.
- Existing literature offers limited data on scaphoid dimensions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantitatively measure scaphoid bone dimensions using advanced imaging technology.
- To analyze scaphoid size variations in relation to patient sex.
- To provide anatomical data relevant to surgical practice.
Main Methods:
- Computed tomography (CT) scans of 30 wrists were acquired.
- Three-dimensional reconstructions were generated using specialized software.
- Scaphoid length, width, height, and volume were systematically measured.
Main Results:
- Mean scaphoid length was 26.0 mm, with males exhibiting significantly longer scaphoids than females.
- Mean scaphoid volume was 3389.5 mm³, with males having significantly larger volumes.
- Significant correlations were found between scaphoid size and sex (P<.001).
Conclusions:
- Considerable variation exists in scaphoid bone length and volume.
- Scaphoid size is strongly correlated with patient sex.
- Awareness of these anatomical variations is essential for surgeons performing scaphoid procedures.
