Cervical Vertebrae at the Galloway Osteological Collection: A Morhphometric Study

Abstract

Background: Morphometric characteristics of typical cervical vertebrae have been studied across different populations and racial differences have been documented. Morphometry of typical cervical vertebrae are useful reference data for spine surgeons and radiologists in the safe management of patients with cervical spine disorders. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the morphometric characteristics of typical cervical vertebrae (C3-C6). Methods: This was a cross sectional study of 404 typical cervical vertebrae retrieved from the Galloway osteological collection atMakerere University. Linear dimensions were measured using digital Vernier calipers. Data was summarized using descriptive statistics. Inferential statistics were performed using the independent sample t-test to determine differences between males and females. The level of significance was set at 0.05. Results: There was progressive increase in the transverse diameter of the vertebral bodies fromC3-C6. The mean transverse diameter of C3 was (22.1±1.5mm), C4 (22.7±1.65mm), C5 (23.6 ±1.5mm) and, C6 (24.7±1.75mm). There was progressive increase in the length of the laminae from C3-C6. Conversely, the pedicle width progressively reduced from C3-C6. The other linear dimensions measured did not show any logical trend. The transverse diameters of the vertebral body, pedicle width, and lamina dimensions were significantly greater in males than in females (P= 0.028, P= 0.001and P= 0.001 respectively). Conclusion: There is progressive increase in the morphometric dimensions of most parameters of the vertebrae from C3 to C6. Conversely the pedicle width progressively reduces from C3-C6. There are significant differences between males and females.