Population-specific reference values for calcaneal angular parameters and their limited utility in sex estimation

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Anthropology
• Radiology

Background:

• The calcaneus (heel bone) is crucial for locomotion and balance.
• Specific calcaneal angles are vital for diagnosing and treating fractures.
• Understanding population-specific calcaneal morphology is important for clinical and anthropological applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine mean values of six key calcaneal angles in a healthy Turkish population.
• To evaluate the accuracy of these angles in predicting sex.
• To provide reference data for clinical diagnosis and anthropological studies.

Main Methods:

• Radiographic measurements of six bilateral angles (Böhler, Gissane, calcaneal inclination, Fowler-Philip, lateral talocalcaneal, calcaneal compression) were taken from 540 individuals (aged 20-65).
• Data were analyzed for differences between sexes, age groups, and sides (right vs. left).
• Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to assess sex prediction accuracy.

Main Results:

• Significant differences were found in calcaneal inclination and lateral talocalcaneal angles between right and left sides.
• The calcaneal compression angle differed between sexes.
• Böhler and Gissane angles showed variations across age groups.
• Calcaneal angles were found to be unsuitable for sex prediction in the studied population.

Conclusions:

• The study established mean values for key calcaneal angles, offering valuable data for clinical decision-making in ankle fracture management.
• Calcaneal angles alone are not sufficient for accurate sex prediction in the Turkish population.
• Findings contribute population-specific reference values and baseline data for future research, including machine learning applications.