Canal Width Research Articles

Pathomorphological features of the proximal femur in crowe IV hips and their implication on stem selection during total hip arthroplasty

BackgroundThe best stem type and location for femoral shortening in high-riding developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) in not clear. We evaluated the morphology of the proximal femur on EOS™ images, focusing on the anatomical landmarks and measurements relevant to the stem selection in high-riding DDH. Our goal is to identify and define the differences in the anatomy of the proximal femur between patients with Crowe type IV DDH and normal individuals, in order to determine the appropriate neck cut location in these patients to increase the chances of successfully using a wedge femoral stem.MethodsEOS™ images of 40 hips with Crowe type-IV DDH and 40 normal hips were included. The distances between the tip of the greater trochanter and vastus ridge (GT-VR), vastus ridge and proximal border of lesser trochanter (VR-LT), greater- and lesser trochanters (GT-LT), base width of the LT, and the proportion of these distances to the femoral length were evaluated. Canal Flare Index (CFI) was also measured, at two different levels.ResultsThe mean GT-LT index was not different between the two groups (p = 0.46). The GT-VR index was smaller in the case group (p < 0.001), while the VR-LT index was greater (p < 0.001). The LT base width index was larger in the case group (P < 0.001). CFI was smaller at the LT level in dysplastic hips (P < 0.001), but the values were similar with a cut 1.5 cm above the LT (P = 0.67).ConclusionIn Crowe IV hips, the GT height is shorter and the LT is located far more distally along the femoral metaphysis, resulting in a narrower canal width at the upper border of the lesser trochanter. Also, the CFI at the LT level is smaller, and to fit a wedge stem, the neck cut should be made at a higher level.

Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes of Small Caliber Intramedullary Nails for Tibial Shaft Fractures.

Tibial shaft fractures, frequently treated with intramedullary nailing (IMN), are high-risk fractures of nonunion. The effect of intramedullary nail diameter on fracture union reduction remains an area of investigation, with many surgeons anecdotally preferring to place at least a 10-mm tibial nail. We hypothesized that small-caliber nails (SCNs) (diameter ≤9 mm) are safe to use and have no difference in complication rates compared with large-caliber nails (LCNs) (≥10 mm). A retrospective study was conducted on patients with tibial shaft fractures undergoing reamed IMN at a level 1 trauma center between 2018 and 2022. Patient and injury characteristics, intramedullary nail diameter, surgical details, and postoperative complication rates were recorded. Nail and intramedullary canal width at the isthmus on coronal radiographs determined the nail-canal ratio. Radiographic coronal and sagittal displacement, angulations between fracture segments, and coronal plane tibial mechanical axis were evaluated on latest radiographs. Among 113 patients, 68 received SCN while 45 received LCN. No difference was observed in the nail-canal ratio between the SCN and LCN groups, indicating that smaller nails were used for smaller canals. No significant demographic differences were noted between groups. LCNs were more prevalent in (AO Foundation/Orthopaedic Trauma Association classification) AO/OTA 42C (P = 0.03) and Gustilo-Anderson type III fractures (P = 0.05). The LCN group had higher rates of revision surgery (20% vs. 5.9%, P = 0.03) and wound dehiscence (8.9% vs. 0%, P = 0.02). Gustilo-Anderson IIIA fractures were independently associated with poorer outcomes overall. Radiographic parameters were comparable between groups. Small-diameter and large-diameter reamed intramedullary nails can be effective in treating tibial shaft fractures. Nail-canal ratios and alignment were similar between the two groups, suggesting that surgeons should not feel obligated to ream to a 10-mm nail in a smaller patient with a well-reduced fracture.

Minimally Invasive Placement of Cannulated Headless Compression Screws for Reduction of Sacroiliac Luxation in 14 Cats.

To describe percutaneous fluoroscopy-guided placement of self-drilling, self-tapping, 3.0 mm cannulated headless compression screws (HCS) for surgical reduction of sacroiliac luxation (SIL) in cats, and to document clinical outcome. Medical records of cats with SIL, managed by percutaneous fluoroscopy-guided placement of a 3.0 mm HCS, were reviewed. Short-term outcome was assessed by clinical examination and radiographs. Long-term outcome was assessed using an owner questionnaire. A total of 14 cats, with 17 SIL (11 unilateral and 3 bilateral), were included. Mean postoperative sacroiliac joint reduction was 85%, median sacral purchase was 63% for unilateral and 38% for bilateral HCS, and pelvic canal diameter ratio and hemipelvic canal width ratio were satisfactory in all cases. At follow-up, all cats exhibited satisfactory clinical improvement. Radiographic assessment revealed no implant-related complications of the unilateral HCS; however, screw loosening was observed in 3/6 of bilateral HCS. Owner satisfaction was good, with 10/11 of owners being very satisfied and 1/11 being satisfied. Percutaneous fluoroscopy-guided placement of a 3.0 mm HCS is a safe and effective method for unilateral surgical reduction of SIL in cats. Further studies are needed to establish the most appropriate procedure to treat bilateral SIL.

Comprehensive management of complex resorptive lesions: Report of two cases

Abstract In the field of endodontics, the management of complex resorptive lesions demands innovative and precise interventions. This report delineates the comprehensive management of two distinct cases, each presenting unique challenges. The first case involved a 23-year-old male with hypothyroidism, presenting with pain and external cervical resorption with internal communication in his lower left front tooth. The case was diagnosed with pulp necrosis and asymptomatic apical periodontitis. The second case involved a 26-year-old female in good health, dissatisfied with the cosmetic appearance, and experiencing occasional pain from a previously treated upper front tooth with concurrent external apical and internal resorption. It was diagnosed as previously treated, with symptomatic apical periodontitis. These cases were notable for their complexity and the tailored approach to diagnosis and treatment, employing advanced techniques and materials, such as bioceramic materials, for optimal outcomes. The first case was approached through conventional endodontic disinfection, flap reflection, and the meticulous external management of the resorptive defect with bioceramic material, followed by restorative procedures. The second case required retreatment, including wide canal management, apex negotiation, and the establishment of an apical plug with bioceramic material, culminating in backfilling with thermoplasticized gutta-percha and subsequent prosthetic rehabilitation. Remarkably, both cases demonstrated successful healing and patient satisfaction at a 6-month follow-up, with radiographs and photographs evidencing the desired clinical outcomes. This report highlights the necessity of adaptability, precision, and the integration of innovative materials and techniques in endodontic practice to effectively address complex resorptive lesions. It underscores the significance of a comprehensive diagnostic and treatment framework that can guide clinical decision-making and enhance procedural outcomes in similar challenging scenarios. It contributes valuable insights and reinforces the imperative of detailed management in endodontic complexities.

A generic precurved interlocking nail is more compatible with femoral and tibial morphology than a straight nail in dogs

Abstract OBJECTIVE To study the morphology of canine and feline femurs and tibias in lateral radiographic projections and assess their compatibility with either a straight or a curved full-length interlocking nail (ILN). METHODS Lateral projection radiographs of 50 tibias and 50 femurs (10 cats and 40 dogs per bone) were used to measure the minimum and maximum radius of curvature of an ILN compatible with each bone. These radii were defined by cranial and caudal endosteal points at the proximal entry point of the nail, at the isthmus, and at the most distal point of the ILN insertion into the femoral or tibial metaphysis. These points were figured by 2 proximal circles, 2 diaphyseal circles at the isthmus, and 2 distal circles in distal metaphyses of the bones. The diameter of these circles corresponded to 75% of the medullary canal width at the isthmus of the bone. RESULTS An ILN with a radius between 750 and 806 mm fit 87% of all the bones reviewed. In dogs, an ILN within this radius range would fit 95% of the tibias, whereas a straight ILN would fit only 50%. For femurs, the curved ILN would fit 80% compared to 37.5% for a straight ILN. In cats, an ILN with a radius between 750 and 806 mm would fit 85% of the bones (femur, 100%; tibia, 70%), whereas a straight ILN would fit all tested bones. CONCLUSIONS A full-length ILN with a radius of curvature between 750 and 806 mm would fit 87% of the studied bones, whereas only 55% of them could accept a straight ILN. CLINICAL RELEVANCE A full-length ILN with a 750–806-mm curvature radius may provide a suitable option for treating most femoral and tibial diaphyseal fractures.

Spinal Anatomy Ultrasound in Young Infants With Implications for Lumbar Puncture.

Lumbar puncture (LP) in young infants may challenge clinicians due to the infrequency of the procedure and anatomic variability. The use of ultrasound (US) to characterize young infant spinal anatomy prior to performing an LP may help determine the most favorable site for intervention. 1) Evaluate potential sites for LP in young infants with US at L2/L3 through L5/S1 to determine differences in needle insertion depth (NID), spinal canal width (SCW), and subarachnoid fluid width (SAW).2) Describe the location of the conus medullaris.3) Predict NID of L2/L3 through L5/S1 based on variables including age, gestational age, height, and weight. We studied a convenience sample of participants aged 0-6 months in a tertiary children's emergency department. We recorded characteristic data and used a Sonosite PX US with a linear 15-MHz transducer to image each participant's spine. We used the paired t-test to examine univariate differences in NID, SCW, and SAW and multiple linear regression models to derive predictive equations for NID. Among 50 participants, the mean NID for sites L2/L3 through L5/S1 did not differ significantly; however, at sites L2/L3 through L5/S1, there were statistically significant differences in the mean SCW and mean SAW, which were both consistently measured to be larger the more cephalad the site. Weight was the only statistically significant variable associated with NID after adjusting for other covariates. Spinal canal width and SAW were consistently measured to be larger at more cephalad sites, suggesting there is a larger target fluid volume available at higher interspaces. Subarachnoid fluid width was measured to be small, highlighting the importance of precise movements. Location of the needle site did not change expected needle depth (approximately 1 cm across all sites). The conus medullaris was not often visualized while scanning the L2/L3-L5/S1 interspaces. Weight can be used to estimate optimal NID; although, it is unclear such small differences would have clinical significance.

Sex Estimation Through Orbital Measurements: A Machine Learning Approach for Forensic Science.

Sex estimation has been extensively investigated due to its importance for forensic science. Several anatomical structures of the human body have been used for this process. The human skull has important landmarks that can serve as reliable sex estimation predictors. In this study, orbital measurements from 92 dried skulls, comprising 35 males and 57 females, were utilized to develop a machine-learning-based classifier for sex estimation with potential applications in forensic science. The parameters evaluated included optic foramen height (OFH), optic foramen width (OFW), optic canal height (OCH), optic canal width (OCW), intraorbital distance (IOD), extraorbital distance (EOD), orbit height (OH), and orbit width (OW). A Random Forest classifier was employed to analyze the data, achieving an overall test accuracy of 0.68. The model demonstrated a precision of 0.65, indicating a moderate level of false positives. The recall was 0.70, reflecting that 70% of the positive cases were correctly identified. The F1 score was calculated at 0.675, suggesting a balanced performance between precision and recall. The area under the curve (ROC AUC) score was also 0.72, indicating that the model can distinguish between classes. The most important features in the best subset were OW (0.2429), IOD (0.2059), EOD (0.1927), OFH (0.1798), and OFW (0.1787), highlighting their significant contributions to the model's predictions. These findings suggest that orbital measurements could potentially serve as reliable predictors for automated sex estimation, contributing to advancements in forensic identification techniques.

The morphology of the lumbar vertebrae: a systematic review with meta-analysis of 1481 individuals with implications for spine surgery

IntroductionThe aim of the present meta-analysis was to provide the most up-to-date and evidence-based results regarding the morphometric properties of the lumbar vertebrae.MethodsMedical databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library were searched through.ResultsThe results of this meta-analysis were established based on a total of 1481 patients. New results were established in 27 categories for each lumbar vertebra separately. The findings from this study reveal that the width of the spinal canal progressively increases towards the lower end of the lumbar spine (L1 = 22.04 mm, L5 = 26.46 mm). Additionally, the transverse processes exhibit a similar trend, widening as they approach the lower lumbar vertebrae (L1 = 68.08 mm, L5 = 85.91 mm). The pedicle height decreased from L1 to L4, with an increase observed at L5 (14.73 mm). No significant differences were observed between the measurements of the left and right pedicles.ConclusionThe presented results provide physicians with normative morphometric data on the lumbar vertebrae. Having adequate knowledge of the anatomy of the lumbar vertebrae may be of immense use for surgeons performing various spinal surgeries, such as pedicle screw fixation, percutaneous endoscopic transforaminal discectomy, or lumbar disc replacement.

Increased length of incarcerated small bowel as a risk factor for intestinal necrosis in obturator hernia.

Incarcerated obturator hernia (OH) is a rare type of pelvic wall hernia. With the increasing adoption of reduction techniques for incarcerated OH, it is crucial to assess the extent of damage to the incarcerated intestine. This study aimed to identify objective risk factors for intestinal necrosis based on computed tomography (CT) findings. From October 2004 to June 2013, data from consecutive patients diagnosed with incarcerated OH at Kameda Medical Center were collected. All patients underwent laparotomy and were classified into either the viable group (no incarceration-related intestinal damage) or the necrosis group (incarceration-related intestinal damage present). Patient characteristics and CT findings were retrieved retrospectively, including incarcerated intestine length, obturator canal width, and precise location of incarceration. Multivariate logistic regression with backward elimination was performed to identify risk factors for intestinal necrosis. A total of 37 patients were included, with 25 in the viable group and 12 in the necrosis group. Multivariate analysis revealed that increased incarcerated intestine length on CT was significantly associated with necrosis (p = 0.004; odds ratio, 1.19 per 1-mm increase; 95% confidence interval, 1.06-1.34), outweighing other factors such as white blood cell count, C-reactive protein levels, and time from onset to hospital arrival. Length of the incarcerated small bowel on CT may be a potential risk factor for intestinal necrosis in patients with OH.

Rectangular femoral stems can successfully accommodate the medullary canal in patients with severe hip dysplasia operated on with total hip arthroplasty and a shortening osteotomy: A morphometric study.

The current study aimed to objectively evaluate the fit of a rectangular, tapered stem to the severely dysplastic hips on the basis of the proximal femoral anatomy and the dimensional properties of the stem. It was hypothesized that the stem size planned with accordance to the diaphyseal canal width alone can accommodate the distal femur successfully with no sizing mismatch. Forty-six patients (53 hips) suffering from secondary osteoarthritis due to hip dysplasia scheduled for total hip arthroplasty (THA) with a subtrochanteric transverse shortening osteotomy were included. All hips were Crowe type 4. All patients underwent preoperative computed tomography imaging. Height of femoral head center (HCH) was determined. Medullary canal diameter measurements at different levels were made. These were made at a level (1) 35% of HCH above the lesser trochanter (DT +35), (2) 70% of HCH below the lesser trochanter (DT -70), and (3) at the level of isthmus (Di). Medullary canal flare indices were calculated from the individual parameter ratios. Similar measurements were carried out for the different sizes of the femoral stem. The mean DT +35 was 41.9 ± 6.4 mm, the mean DT-70 was 17.3 ± 2.2 mm, and the mean Di was 12.8 ± 1.9 mm. In all femurs, the width of the isthmus was wider than that of the corresponding femoral stem isthmus. The femoral stem sizes established with respect to the diaphyseal width of the femur were all compatible with the isthmus width of the femur. Tapered and rectangular stems can accommodate the proximal femur above and below the osteotomy level in Crowe type IV hip dyplasia patients, thereby constituting a viable option as the femoral stem in this patient group with technically demanding difficulties.

Exploring Variations in Lumbar Canal Width: An MRI Study on Asymptomatic Patients by Age and Gender.

Background: Lumbar spinal stenosis is a common degenerative condition, especially in older adults, leading to significant morbidity. Age, gender, and lumbar level variations in spinal canal width are critical in assessing stenosis risk. Many patients exhibit radiographic narrowing without clinical symptoms. This study analyzed the risk of lumbar stenosis by age, gender, and lumbar levels (L1-S1) using the MRI of patients without clinical signs of narrowing. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 120 patients, aged 20 to 75, who underwent lumbar MRI for unrelated reasons. Spinal canal widths were measured at five lumbar levels (L1-2 to L5-S1), and stenosis risk was classified as low, borderline, or high based on narrowing thresholds. Data were grouped by age and gender to assess the stenosis risk distribution. Results: The analysis revealed a progressive increase in stenosis risk from the upper to lower lumbar levels. At L4-5 and L5-S1, females aged 61-75 exhibited the highest proportions in borderline- and high-risk categories. While most patients were classified as low risk, many older patients showed radiographic narrowing without clinical symptoms. Males generally had wider canals and lower risk. Conclusions: Age and gender significantly impact lumbar stenosis risk, particularly in older females. The findings highlight the importance of clinical correlation despite radiographic evidence of stenosis and suggest potential for AI-based detection systems in enhancing assessments of spinal canal narrowing.

Morphometric Evaluation of the Thoracic and Lumbar Vertebral Canal and Spinal Cord Using Computed Tomography in Healthy Korean Shorthair Cats.

This study aimed to evaluate the spinal morphometry of the thoracic and lumbar regions in normal Korean Shorthair cats using computed tomography (CT) and to investigate the relationship with variables such as sex, age and body weight. Fifteen clinically healthy Korean Shorthair cats (eight males, seven females) from Seoul National University Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital were included in this retrospective study. Measurements of the height, width and area of the vertebral canal and spinal cord on CT images were taken at the cranial, middle and caudal points of the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae by three observers, and the ratios of the spinal cord area to the vertebral canal area were calculated. The significance of the differences in measurements between sexes and correlations with age and body weight were analysed. The mean age of the cats was 7 years (range: 2-12 years), with a mean weight of 5.27 kg (range: 2.6-8.3 kg). The height, width and area of the vertebral canal and spinal cord were significantly greater in males than in females (p < 0.05). The ratios of the spinal cord area to the vertebral canal area showed no significant difference between sexes (p > 0.05), and no significant correlations were found between the ratios of the spinal cord area to the vertebral canal area and age or body weight. This study provides useful reference intervals for spinal morphometry in the thoracic and lumbar regions of healthy Korean Shorthair cats and investigate the relationship with variables such as sex, age and body weight. This anatomical information may assist in the diagnosis and prognosis of thoracic, lumbar vertebral and spinal cord diseases using CT.

Root canal widths of mandibular molars in predicting the legal age threshold 18 years in a sample of juveniles and sub-adults of south-indian origin: an orthopantomographic study.

Pursuing a proficient age estimation methodology introducing novel radiographic methods remains an ongoing and demanding aspect of forensic and medicolegal research. In 2017, Roberts GJ et al. (J Forensic Sci 62(2):351-4, 2017) described a new radiographic method, i.e., root canal width (RCW) patterns to assign a subject to above 18-year-age threshold. Since then, few researchers have investigated the validity of this radiographic method in other populations. The present study aimed to test the usefulness of these RCW patterns in predicting 18 years in a sample of South Indian juveniles and sub-adults aged between 16 and 23. Descriptive analysis revealed that pattern-A was initially observed at a minimum age of 16.08 and 16.22 years in males and females. Pattern-B at 16.31 years in males and 16.22 years in females, while pattern-C was initially recorded at 18.73 years in males and 19.01 years in females, respectively. In summary, if an individual, regardless of sex, exhibits a fully-formed (apex closed) mandibular first, second, and third molars and concurrently displays RCW-C, there is a strong likelihood that the person has exceeded the legally relevant age of 18 years. However, due to higher rate of technically unacceptable errors (adults wrongly identified as individuals below 18 years), reliance on this method alone should be restricted, and it is advisable to combine it with other methods.

The spine-brain axis: is spinal anatomy associated with brain volume?

First small sample studies indicate that disturbances of spinal morphology may impair craniospinal flow of cerebrospinal fluid and result in neurodegeneration. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of cervical spinal canal width and scoliosis with grey matter, white matter, ventricular and white matter hyperintensity volumes of the brain in a large study sample. Four hundred participants underwent whole-body 3 T magnetic resonance imaging. Grey matter, white matter and ventricular volumes were quantified using a warp-based automated brain volumetric approach. Spinal canal diameters were measured manually at the cervical vertebrae 2/3 level. Scoliosis was evaluated using manual measurements of the Cobb angle. Linear binomial regression analyses of measures of brain volumes and spine anatomy were performed while adjusting for age, sex, hypertension, cholesterol levels, body mass index, smoking and alcohol consumption. Three hundred eighty-three participants were included [57% male; age: 56.3 (±9.2) years]. After adjustment, smaller spinal canal width at the cervical vertebrae 2/3 level was associated with lower grey matter (P = 0.034), lower white matter (P = 0.012) and higher ventricular (P = 0.006, inverse association) volume. Participants with scoliosis had lower grey matter (P = 0.005), lower white matter (P = 0.011) and larger brain ventricular (P = 0.003) volumes than participants without scoliosis. However, these associations were attenuated after adjustment. Spinal canal width at the cervical vertebrae 2/3 level and scoliosis were not associated with white matter hyperintensity volume before and after adjustment (P > 0.864). In our study, cohort smaller spinal canal width at the cervical vertebrae 2/3 level and scoliosis were associated with lower grey and white matter volumes and larger ventricle size. These characteristics of the spine might constitute independent risk factors for neurodegeneration.

Dentin thickness model: A novel method for dental age estimation using panoramic radiography

The study aims to evaluate the reliability of the novel dentin thickness model based on root parameters when applied to panoramic radiography images of mandibular first molar in the southern Turkish subpopulation. A total of 946 panoramic images were analyzed for the study. The samples were allocated into four age groups: Group 1(between 10 and 18), Group 2(between 19 and 30), Group 3(between 31 and 50), Group 4(between 51 and 78). The dentin thickness model measurements consisted of root dentin thickness of the mesial aspect of the distal root and distal canal width. Regression, intraclass correlation coefficient, and Durbin-Watson analyses were used for statistics. A medium correlation was detected in the dentin thickness model (R = 0.398). Root dentin thickness and canal width had a significant effect (p < 0.05), but gender did not (p > 0.05). Group 3 showed the highest accuracy (p < 0.001). Group 4 presented the lowest correlation with chronological age compared to other age groups (p < 0.001). The dentin thickness model showed a promising result for the dental age estimation with a medium correlation. The dentin thickness model included root measurements of the mesial aspect of the mandibular first molar without any crown parameters in the southern Turkish subpopulation. Gender did not affect the dentin thickness model.

Stabilization of 82 sacroiliac luxations in 67 cats using two sacroiliac screws (2014-2023).

To describe sacroiliac luxation stabilization in cats using two screws and to report clinical and radiographic short-term outcomes. Retrospective clinical cohort study. Cats (n = 67) with sacroiliac luxation. Case records of cats presented for sacroiliac luxation stabilized using two screws per side affected, one lag and one positional, between 2014 and 2023 were reviewed. The percentage of sacral purchase (PoSP) for each screw, percentage of reduction (PoR), and pelvic canal width ratio (PCWR) were measured and calculated. Eighty-two sacroiliac luxations were stabilized. Two 2.0 mm screws were used in 69 cases; two 2.4-mm screws in nine cases, and one 2.4 mm with one 2.0 mm screw in four cases. The mean PoSPs for lag and positional screws were 46% ± 12 and 31% ± 11, respectively. The median PoR was 89% (41 to 100). The mean PCWR was 1.23 ± 0.11. Clinical follow up was available for 42 cats with 53 sacroiliac luxations at a median of 87 days (36 to 2503). The full function was noted in 34 patients (81%). Screw failure occurred in five sacroiliac joints (4.7%), including loosening (n = 3), and breakage (n = 2) of the positional screws (n = 1). Pelvic canal diameter was maintained in all cases. Excellent functional and radiographic outcomes were obtained for cats with sacroiliac luxation stabilized with two sacroiliac screws. Feline sacroiliac luxation can be stabilized using two sacroiliac screws.

Fractal Analysis of Mandible in Panoramic Radiographs of Patients Received Radiotherapy for Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

Purpose: This study aimed to assess the impact of radiotherapy on the internal structure complexity of mandibular cortical and trabecular bone and to determine the duration required for a return to healthy values post-radiotherapy.Materials and Methods: Panoramic radiographs from patients undergoing radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma were analyzed before and after treatment. Four groups were formed based on post-radiotherapy radiography timing (0-6 months, 6-12 months, 12-24 months, and 24-36 months), comprising a total of 59 cases and 118 radiographs. Fractal analysis was conducted on four bilateral regions (ROI) in both trabecular and cortical bone on each radiograph. Additionally, measurements of inferior alveolar canal width and mandibular cortical width were performed. Mean and maximum radiation dose values to the mandible were measured, and their correlation with changes in fractal dimension, inferior alveolar canal width, and mandibular cortical width values was assessed.Results: Fractal dimension values in regions over trabecular bone showed a statistically significant decrease in all groups, although no significant difference was observed among the four groups. In ROI-4 from cortical bone, a significant fractal dimension decrease was noted in all groups except the 0-6 month group. The magnitude of fractal dimension decrease was higher in the 12-24 and 24-36 month groups compared to the 0-6 month group. inferior alveolar canal width and mandibular cortical width values significantly decreased post-radiotherapy in all groups, with a consistent decrease across the groups.Conclusions: Radiotherapy induces a reduction in the internal complexity of trabecular and cortical bone structures in the mandible. Osteoradionecrosis risk persists even three years post-radiotherapy, suggesting a cautious approach to interventional procedures on the bone.

Differences in Femoral Medullary Canal Dimensions in the USA and East Asian Populations

With emerging technologies and improved operative techniques, cementless total hip arthroplasty is becoming more popular and showing better results. The femoral prosthesis and intramedullary nail should precisely fit in the medullary canal to prevent micromotion and loosening. Most of the femoral prosthesis and nail designs are made from the data obtained from Caucasian femur and may not press fit if used in Asian populations. This study compares the femoral medullary canal diameter in American and Oriental populations at different bony levels. A total of 245 dry femora were collected which included 47 from United States, 77 from China, 44 from Japan, 50 from Korea and 27 from Taiwan, and plan radiographs were taken. Radiographs were digitized to measure the medullary canal width at 20% (lesser trochanter; LT), 35% (supra-isthmus; SI), 50% (mid-isthmus; MI), 65% and 80% of the total femur length. The results revealed significant differences in the medullary canal width between the US and East Asian Oriental populations. The medullary canal in the US population was significantly larger at the LT, SI, MI, and 65% but significantly smaller at 80% of the femoral shaft length compared to the East Asian populations. Among the East Asian populations, significant differences were obse4rved between the Chinese and Taiwanese populations as well as the Japanese and Taiwanese populations. The Taiwanese population had the smallest femoral medullary canal size among the east Asian populations. We conclude that there are significant differences in the femoral medullary width between the American and East Asian populations. These results will be useful for surgeons operating on the proximal or distal femur.

What Degree of Radiological Compression Predicts Cauda Equina Syndrome: A Retrospective Study at a National Tertiary Center

ObjectiveCauda Equina Syndrome (CES) is diagnosed both clinically and radiologically. However, it's unclear if a specific degree of cauda equina compression (CEC) on imaging can confirm the diagnosis. This study aimed to identify an optimal percentage of prolapse to canal ratio (PCR) on MRI that correlates with CEC, facilitating reliable decision-making for CES symptoms. MethodsA single-center retrospective case series analysis was conducted from 2020 to 2021. Sixty-one patients who underwent emergency lumbar discectomy within 48 hours of presentation were included, divided into a CES group and a disc prolapse (DP) group. CES cases were identified using ICD-10 code G83.4. PCR was calculated by dividing the width of the disc herniation by the total width of the spinal canal at the level of the herniation on single mid-sagittal T2 MRI scans, using the IC Measure software on Windows. ResultsCES most frequently occurred at the L4/5 level (37/61). The median PCR in CES cases was 76.19% (66.67 – 85.71), significantly higher than in DP cases, 48.08% (31.33 – 55.56) (p<0.001). A PCR threshold of 40% maximized sensitivity at 100% but had a specificity of 45%. Conversely, a threshold of 75% maximized specificity at 100% with a sensitivity of 50%. The optimal PCR, determined by the Youden index, was 66%, yielding a sensitivity of 75% and specificity of 97%, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.923. ConclusionsSimple radiological measurements of PCR can potentially triage CES patients and guide their management. Future studies should correlate PCR with clinical signs and symptoms for a comprehensive assessment.

Establishing legal threshold of 18-years based on the assessment of mandibular molars using three different methods - An observational study.

The study evaluates the feasibility of employing the radiographic visibility of the root pulp and periodontal ligament in mandibular molars for age estimation, particularly focusing on the 18 years of age threshold. This study additionally investigates the potential of root canal width reduction in mandibular molars, as a reliable method for forensic age estimation in living individuals. A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the radiographic visibility of the root pulp (RPV) and the root canal width (RCW) of mandibular first, second, and third molars along with the radiographic visibility of the periodontal ligament (PLV) of mandibular third molars, in a sample of 403 individuals aged 16-25 years (220 males and 183 females). Data regarding age for different stages of RPV and PLV and various types of RCW were recorded and observed for sex-based differences. Results obtained were tabulated and descriptive statistics were applied to summarise the findings. Individuals over 18 years old were classified with higher accuracy using stage 3 of the RPV scoring system in all mandibular molars (first, second, and third) compared to stage 2, which was also effective for the second and third molars. This result held regardless of sex and side examined. Additionally, root canal width (RCW) assessment demonstrated that individuals with RCW types A, B, and C were more likely to be under 18 years old in both sexes. Conversely, individuals with RCW type U on the right side for males and the left side for females exhibited a higher likelihood of being above 18 years old. The study suggests that the assessment of mandibular molars could potentially serve as an auxiliary tool in age estimation methods, particularly for approximating individuals around the 18 years of age threshold. Further investigation is warranted to explore the potential application of root canal width measurements in forensic age estimation.