Estimation of Maximum Tibial Length From Measured Anthropometric Parameters in a North Indian Population

Accurate tibia length estimation is essential for anthropological, clinical, and forensic applications. However, population-specific data are crucial due to variations in body proportions. This study aims to establish a regression model for estimating the maximum tibial length (MTL) based on easily measurable tibial anthropometric parameters in the Indian population.

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 90 adult dry tibia bones. Measurements of various tibial anthropometric parameters, including tibial length (proximal to distal points), tibial breadth (medial and lateral condyle widths), and tibial circumferences, were taken using standard osteometric techniques. Data were analyzed using statistical methods, including correlation analysis and multiple regression models, to determine the best predictors of MTL. The sample was stratified by gender to account for sex-specific variations in tibia length.

A total of 90 observations were analyzed. Several variables showed significant deviation from normality. Males were significantly older and had higher values for MTL, bicondylar tibial width (BTW), anterior-posterior intercondylar diameter (APID), anterior-posterior diameter of the medial condyle (APDMC), and transverse diameter of the medial condyle (TDMC) compared to females (all p < 0.01). Correlation analysis demonstrated strong positive associations between MTL and APID (r = 0.643, p < 0.001) and between APID and distal articular surface length (DASL) (r = 0.740, p < 0.001).

The study successfully derived population-specific regression models for estimating MTL from anthropometric measurements in the Indian population. These models can be applied in forensic investigations and anthropological research to estimate stature accurately. However, further validation studies in diverse Indian subpopulations are recommended to enhance the generalizability of the findings.