Morphometry of talar trochlear surface and its correlation

Abstract

Background and objectives: The morphometry of talus represents its biomechanical role in transmission of body weight. The objective of the study was to find the shape of trochlea and its correlation with other articular surfaces. Methodology: A total of 160 dry Tali of unknown sex were utilised for this study, its trochlear surface length-anterior, middle and posterior breadth [TSL, TSAB, TSMB and TSPB], calcaneal surface length & breadth [CSL and CSB] and navicular surface length & breadth [NSL and NSB] were measured using digital vernier caliper. Trochlear surface angle [TSA] and depth angle [DA] were calculated using image J software. The mean and standard deviation of the parameters were calculated. Side differences between the parameters were calculated by independent sample t test and the strength of association between the parameters was calculated by Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Results: The results were trochlear surface length, anterior, middle and posterior breadth [29.6 ± 2.7,31 ± 2.5,28.2 ±2.6 and 21.4 ± 2.1mm], navicular surface length & breadth [29.7 ± 2.5 & 20.5 ± 1.7mm] and calcaneal surface length & breadth [30 ± 2.4 &19.8 ± 1.6mm]. The mean trochlear surface and depth angle were 9.7 ± 3.3 and 156 ± 5.1degrees. There was significant correlation between the parameters of the articular surfaces. Conclusion: The present study helps in understanding the morphology of talus and the role of articular surfaces in load transmission.