Morphometric analysis of hand sesamoid bones using computed tomography and assessment of sex-related differences

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to conduct a comprehensive morphometric analysis of the sesamoid bones in the hand using com puted tomography (CT) images. Methods This retrospective analysis examined the data of 211 patients who had undergone upper extremity CT imaging, retrieved from the Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS). Image evaluation was conducted by two inde pendent radiologists using three-dimensional CT reconstructions. The assessment criteria included the presence, number, anatomical location, dimensions (length and width), and volume of the sesamoid bones. For statistical analysis, the Mann Whitney U test was used to examine morphometric differences between sexes, while ANOVA was employed to assess dif ferences among age groups. Results The metacarpophalangeal (MCP) and interphalangeal (IP) joints of the thumb are the most common sites for sesa moid bones. While the prevalence and size of these bones do not show statistically significant differences between genders, their volumes differ in the MCP II and IP I-R joints. The largest sesamoid volume is found in the thumb MCP joint, while the volume generally tends to decrease from the radial side of the hand towards the ulnar side. Conclusion Morphometric analysis of hand sesamoid bones through CT has unveiled notable anatomical variations and gen der-specific differences. These findings are essential for diagnosis and treatment in hand surgery, traumatology, and forensic medicine. For instance, understanding sex-related differences in sesamoid bone sizes can significantly improve identification methods and surgical approaches, ultimately resulting in enhanced patient outcomes.