Computer Aided Three Dimensional Morphometry of the Proximal Ulna and the Implications on Plating - Anatomical Cadaveric Study

Abstract

Anatomically preshaped olecranon plates are increasingly used for stabilization of comminuted olecranon fractures as well as Monteggia fractures. Purpose of this study was to investigate the three dimensional morphology of the proximal ulna and to discuss the findings focusing on the geometry of different preshaped plates. We performed 64-slice CT scans of 30 cadaveric elbows and following reconstruction and measurements of images were carried out by using a 3D-software. After analysis of measurements we detected a mean dorsal hook angle of 94.2° (74.66° to 110.77°). We revealed a mean distance from the tip of the olecranon to the insertion of triceps (most proximal fibres) of 25.43mm, a mean varus angulation of 14.26° (6.40° to 22.94°) and a mean anterior deviation of 7.91° (3.04° to 13.58°). Remarkable was a specific gender differences in proximal ulna anatomy. Our results demonstrate that the proximal ulna shows a varied morphology. The construction of an anatomically preshaped plate providing a perfect fit in most cases would be a serious challenge.

Datum der Bewilligung	2011
Originalsprache	Englisch
Gradverleihende Hochschule	Medizinische Universität Graz
Betreuer/-in	Wolfgang Pichler (Betreuer*in) & Wolfgang Grechenig (Mitbetreuer*in)