Comprehensive Morphometric Analysis Of Human Humerus Bones: Implications For Forensic And Clinical Applications

Abstract

Background The morphometric analysis of human humerus bones provides critical insights into anatomical characteristics, which have significant implications for forensic identification, clinical applications, and anthropological research. Understanding the variability and correlations within humerus morphology is essential for developing population-specific reference standards and improving surgical outcomes. This study aims to provide a comprehensive morphometric analysis of human humerus bones, focusing on various anatomical parameters, the occurrence of foramina, and the correlations between different morphometric measurements. The goal is to contribute valuable data that can inform both forensic and clinical applications.

Methods A total of 100 human humerus bones (50 right and 50 left) were analyzed. Standardized protocols were followed to measure parameters including maximum humerus length (MHL), transverse diameter of the humeral head (TDHH), vertical diameter of the humeral head (VDHH), circumference of the surgical neck (GSN), bicipital groove length (BGL), bicipital groove width (BGW), bicipital groove depth (BGD), distance from humeral head to greater tubercle (HH-GT), distance from humeral head to surgical neck (HH-GSN), minimum diameter of the humerus diaphysis (MINDHB), maximum diameter of the humerus diaphysis (MAXDHB), and circumference length of the humerus diaphysis (CLHB). The presence of supratrochlear and nutrient foramina was also recorded. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlation coefficient.

Results The mean length of the right humerus was 30.11 mm (±1.3), and the left humerus was 30.04 mm (±1.39). The mean weight of the right humerus was 114.05 g (±27.06), and the left humerus was 110.63 g (±34.14). Supratrochlear foramen was present in 16% of the specimens, while the nutrient foramen was absent in 4.4% of the sample. Moderate to weak correlations were observed between several parameters, such as humerus length and weight (r = 0.62, p < 0.05) and nutrient foramen localization and humerus length (r = 0.38, p < 0.05).

Conclusion This study provides a detailed morphometric analysis of human humerus bones, highlighting the variability and complex relationships within humerus morphology. These findings underscore the importance of establishing population-specific reference ranges for forensic and clinical purposes. The data contribute valuable insights that can inform forensic identification, enhance surgical precision, and support anthropological research.