Related Experiment Videos
Ulnar variance and age
P L Sanderson1, I C Cameron, G R Holt
1Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, UK.
Journal of Hand Surgery (Edinburgh, Scotland)
|February 1, 1997
Summary
Ulnar variance, a measurement of the ulna bone in the wrist, significantly decreases with age in both men and women. This study analyzed 1,023 wrist radiographs to observe this age-related change in ulnar negative variance.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Ulnar variance is a radiographic measurement of the distal ulna relative to the distal radius.
- Standardized radiographic techniques are crucial for accurate ulnar variance assessment.
- Age-related changes in bone morphology are well-documented, but specific changes in ulnar variance require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the relationship between age and ulnar variance in a large cohort.
- To investigate potential sex-based differences in age-related ulnar variance changes.
- To provide data for understanding normal wrist aging.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 1,023 posteroanterior wrist radiographs.
- Standardized imaging protocol ensuring consistent wrist positioning.
- Measurement of ulnar variance, categorizing it as negative, zero, or positive.
Main Results:
- A statistically significant decrease in ulnar negative variance was observed with increasing age in both male and female participants.
- No significant sex-specific differences in the trend of decreasing ulnar negative variance with age were noted.
- The study established a normative range for ulnar variance across a wide age spectrum.
Conclusions:
- Ulnar negative variance demonstrates a consistent decline throughout adulthood.
- Aging appears to be a significant factor influencing distal ulnar length relative to the radius.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying physiological mechanisms driving this age-related change.