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Phalangeal Bone Mineral Density Mapping Using Quantitative CT: Implications for Hand Surgery Fixation Planning.
Zoe K Papadopoulou1, Konstantinos N Malizos1, Filippos Filippou2
1Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41500 Larissa, Greece.
Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland)
|June 26, 2026
Summary
Computed tomography (CT) quantified bone mineral density (BMD) in finger phalanges, revealing significant variations within digits but not between them. These findings aid surgical planning for hand injuries.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
- Anatomy
Background:
- Bone mineral density (BMD) assessment is crucial for skeletal health.
- Understanding regional BMD variations in the hand can inform surgical interventions.
- Phalangeal base BMD data is essential for hand surgery planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify and map bone mineral density (BMD) at human finger phalangeal bases using CT.
- To compare BMD between and within different digits and phalangeal levels.
Main Methods:
- CT scans of ten cadaveric hands were performed with a calibration phantom.
- Regions of interest at phalangeal bases were analyzed.
- Hounsfield Units were converted to BMD (mg/cm³); statistical analyses were conducted.
Main Results:
- BMD varied significantly across digits and phalangeal levels.
- Thumb and index fingers had highest proximal BMD; middle and ring fingers had highest middle phalangeal BMD.
- Little finger had highest distal BMD; BMD decreased distally in thumb/index fingers.
Conclusions:
- CT-based BMD mapping reveals substantial intra-digital variability in phalangeal bases.
- Descriptive inter-digital differences were noted, with significant intra-digital variations.
- Site-specific BMD data can improve implant selection and preoperative planning for hand surgery.
