Cross sectional properties of the human radial tuberosity

Abstract

This study examines the cross sectional shape and biomechanical properties of the radial bone shaft at mid-radial tuberosity (RT) musculoskeletal marker (MSM). This information will provide insight into factors affecting bone modelling at muscle insertions. Radial shaft cross-sectional properties at radial tuberosity area (RTA) have not been previously studied. The material consists of 54 male skeletons derived from autopsies performed during the 1920s and 1930s and housed at the Central Natural History Museum, University of Helsinki. The age, sex and occupation of these individuals are known. We applied a pQCT (peripheral quantitative computed tomography) scan on the mid-site of the radial tuberosity to investigate the cross-sectional shape, the bone mineral density (BMD) and biomechanical properties. Our results indicate that bone modelling does not produce increased wall thickness or BMD at the RT site. Additionally we noticed that aging and physical activity affect the biomechanics of the RT and that the bone distribution at mid-RT is adapted to accommodate the biceps brachii muscle pull. We also found a clear association between RTA and biomechanical properties of mid-RT cross section.