Morphometry of Typical Cervical Vertebrae on Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Adult Bangladeshi People: A Cross-sectional Analytical Study

Abstract

Background: Accurate knowledge of cervical vertebral morphometry is crucial for diagnosing pathological conditions and planning surgical interventions. However, data specific to the Bangladeshi population is lacking. Objectives: To determine the morphometric measurements of typical cervical vertebrae (C3-C6) on Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in adult Bangladeshi people and to analyze potential sex-based differences. Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted on 70 MRI scans (35 male, 35 female) of typical cervical vertebrae from adult Bangladeshi individuals. Various morphometric parameters were measured using 'Radiant DICOM Viewer' software. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 22.0. Results: The sagittal diameter of the vertebral body was significantly larger in males compared to females for all measured vertebrae (p<0.001). No significant differences were found between sexes in the height and transverse length of the vertebral body, anteroposterior and transverse lengths of the vertebral foramen, dimensions of foramen transversarium, superior articular facets, lamina, pedicle, and spinous process length (p>0.05 for all). Conclusion: This study provides baseline morphometric data for typical cervical vertebrae in adult Bangladeshi individuals. The observed sexual dimorphism in sagittal vertebral body diameter and the lack of significant differences in other parameters contribute to our understanding of population-specific cervical spine anatomy. These findings may have implications for optimizing surgical techniques and implant designs for the Bangladeshi population.