Evaluation of sternal morphology according to age and sex in multidedector computerized tomography

Abstract

Objectives: The sternum is located in the middle of the anterior wall of the thoracic cage. It consists of three parts; manubrium, body (corpus) and xiphoid process. Since it is an easy bone to scan, it can be used for age and sex determination in forensic medicine. The aim of the study was to investigate the characteristics of the sternum according to age and gender. Methods: This study was performed retrospectively on 700 CT images. 3D volume rendering images of sternum were created from the axial CT images at a 1 mm slice thickness. Results: There were significant differences in sternum measurements according to age and sex. The xiphoid process was identified under three different types. Ossification between the manubrium and sternum body showed significant differences according to age and sex. Conclusion: Data collected from a single bone is important for age and sex prediction especially in forensic medicine. These data taken from a large series may also contribute to evaluation of variations in sternal morphology.

Keywords

• anatomy
• multidetector computerized tomography
• morhology
• sternum

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