Anatomical morphometry of the proximal humerus in the Vietnamese population: A comparative study using multiplanar...

Fractures of the proximal humerus are prevalent among the elderly, often posing challenges in anatomical reconstruction and internal fixation. Precise anatomical knowledge tailored to specific populations is essential for optimal surgical outcomes. This study aims to quantitatively evaluate the anatomical characteristics of the proximal humerus in the Vietnamese population through multiplanar computed tomography (CT) and cadaveric measurements, and to determine the consistency between the two modalities.

A prospective descriptive study was conducted on 75 CT scans and 30 shoulder specimens from 15 fresh cadavers. Parameters measured included the neck-shaft angle, diameters of the humeral head (superior-inferior and anterior-posterior), width of the greater tuberosity, deltoid tuberosity index, and distances from the greater tuberosity to anatomical landmarks such as the lesser tuberosity, bicipital groove, and pectoralis major insertion.

The average neck-shaft angle was 132.36° ± 2.44°, with most values within 130°-140°. The deltoid tuberosity index averaged 1.76 ± 0.20, exceeding thresholds reported in previous studies. No statistically significant differences were found between CT and cadaveric measurements across most parameters (p > 0.05). The anatomical measurements were found to be smaller than those reported in Western populations but comparable to other Asian populations.

The study confirms that CT imaging provides reliable and accurate morphometric data comparable to cadaveric dissection. Key anatomical landmarks such as the pectoralis major insertion, lesser tuberosity, and bicipital groove can serve as consistent intraoperative references for implant positioning in Vietnamese patients.