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An alternative method for determination of the carpal height ratio
G R Nattrass1, G J King, R Y McMurtry
1Department of Surgery, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. American Volume
|January 1, 1994
Summary
A new carpal height ratio using capitate length is a reliable alternative for wrist imaging when the third metacarpal is not fully visible. This reproducible measurement aids in assessing carpal collapse and rheumatoid arthritis.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Radiology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Standard carpal height ratio measurement is limited by incomplete visualization of the third metacarpal in wrist radiographs.
- A reproducible alternative measurement is needed for accurate carpal assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the revised carpal height ratio (carpal height divided by capitate length) as a reproducible alternative to the standard method.
- To assess the clinical utility of this new ratio in various patient populations.
Main Methods:
- The revised carpal height ratio was calculated from radiographs of cadaveric wrists, normal volunteers with controlled positioning, randomly selected normal wrists, and patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Reproducibility and clinical utility were assessed through in vitro and in vivo studies.
Main Results:
- The revised carpal height ratio demonstrated consistency in the normal population and bilateral symmetry.
- A decrease in the ratio was observed in patients with carpal collapse.
- The measurement proved to be reproducible across different study groups.
Conclusions:
- The revised carpal height ratio is a constant and reproducible measurement in normal individuals.
- This ratio is clinically useful for detecting carpal collapse and may aid in evaluating rheumatoid arthritis.
- It serves as a viable alternative when the third metacarpal is not fully visualized on wrist radiographs.