Osteometric analysis of the intertubercular sulcus of the humerus

The anatomical variations and deviations from the expected intertubercular sulcus morphometry are associated with the physiology of the long head of the biceps brachii tendon. These variations may affect tendon biomechanics, potentially impacting shoulder joint stability.

to evaluate the osteometric features of the intertubercular sulcus, including its dimensions, angles, and bony protrusions, and to compare these variables according to side and sex.

The descriptive, cross-sectional study included a sample of 85 humeri. Morphometric analysis involved measurements of the intertubercular sulcus width, depth, and length; distances between its walls and the lesser and greater tubercles; and calculations of angles. Measurements were obtained using ImageJ (version 150i). Additionally, a non-metric method was used to determine sex based on the shape and prominence of structures at the distal end of the humerus.

The distances between the head and the greater and lesser tubercles were statistically significantly greater on the right humeri. The length of the lateral lip of the sulcus was greater in males compared with female humeri (114.2 mm vs. 108.7 mm). The right side's opening angle was higher than on the left (78.7° vs. 74.4°). Bony spikes were observed on the greater tubercle in four humeri (4.7%), on the lesser tubercle in seven humeri (8.2%), and supratubercular ridges were identified in a total of 10 humeri (11.8%).

The dimensions of the intertubercular sulcus were larger on the right humeri. Analysis of the angles of the intertubercular sulcus provides a more precise account of its morphology.