| Abstrakt: |
Purpose: The knowledge of the normal geometrical characteristics of the proximal humerus is crucial to the success of its arthroplasty. This important information, is however, limited for the South African population. Therefore, this study investigates the three-dimensional morphometric parameters, specifically examining the intra-ancestral differences within the South African population. Methods: With the aid of geometry extraction techniques, various morphometric characteristics were measured on South African cadaveric humeri originating from three ethnicities including whites, blacks, and mixed in the ratio 1:2:4. Results: There is a significant mean difference in humeral head diameter between blacks and whites and between mixed and whites with a mean difference of − 4.86, 95% CI (− 9. 4 0 , − 0. 3 2) and − 4. 5 0 , 95% CI (− 8. 5 6 , − 0. 4 4), respectively. Similarly, for articular surface diameter, a significant mean difference of − 4. 5 8 , 95% CI (− 9. 1 0 , − 0. 0 6 4 6) and − 4. 3 2 , 95% CI (− 8. 3 6 , − 0. 2 8 5 4) were recorded between blacks and whites and between mixed and whites, respectively. Conclusion: The outcome of our study showed that the shape of the South African proximal humerus varies distinctively within the different ethnicities that were measured. The findings from this study may provide the data required to design and develop a new shoulder implant appropriate for South African patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
