Anthropometric Evaluation of the Coracoid Process in the Indian Population Using 3D CT Imaging

The coracoid process is a key anatomical component of the scapula, playing a vital role in shoulder biomechanics and various procedures. The success of these interventions depends on accurate anatomical knowledge, which may vary across populations. However, there is limited anthropometric data available for the Indian population. Thereby, this study aims at a detailed anthropometric assessment of the coracoid process in the Indian population using 3D computed tomography (CT), intending to improve surgical planning and outcomes.

A cross-sectional observational study was conducted from April to September 2021. CT scans of 105 adults aged 20-60 years with normal shoulders were analyzed bilaterally. Morphological measurements of the coracoid process were obtained and data was analyzed statistically. Individuals with previous fractures, pathologies, and dislocations around the shoulder joint were excluded.

The mean coracoid length, tip height, tip width, midpoint height, midpoint width, coracoid height, and tip-to-midpoint distance on the right side were 39.86 ± 1.20 mm, 10.10 ± 0.71 mm, 12.36 ± 0.58 mm, 11.31 ± 0.99 mm, 13.34 ± 0.56 mm, 17.72 ± 1.26 mm, and 19.93 ± 0.60 mm, respectively. Corresponding values on the left side were 39.69 ± 1.18 mm, 10.05 ± 0.73 mm, 12.31 ± 0.57 mm, 11.27 ± 0.98 mm, 13.29 ± 0.55 mm, 17.67 ± 1.24 mm, and 19.84 ± 0.59 mm. These dimensions were comparable on both sides, with slightly higher values on the right and significantly greater in males compared to females (p < 0.05), while no significant associations were observed with age indicating that gender, not age, influences coracoid morphology in this population.

This study presents detailed 3D anthropometric data of the coracoid process and offers valuable reference points for orthopaedic surgeons during surgical planning to improve procedural outcomes.