Sex and stature estimation based on multidetector computed tomography imaging measurements of the sternum in Turkish population

Abstract

Objective: : The aim of this study was to measure the accuracy of sternum measurement results obtained by multidetector computed tomography for sex and stature estimation and to develop regression formulas. Materials and methods: : Multidetector computed tomography images of 237 cases (113 males, 124 females) were used. Manubrial length (ML), sternal body length (BL) and combined length of manubrium and sternal body (CL) as well as total sternal length (TSL) from the coronal plane images, manubrial width (MW), sternal body width at first sternebra (CSW1) and sternal body width at third sternebra (CSW3) were measured and evaluated. The effect of the measurements in determining the sex was determined by logistic regression analysis, and the effect in determining the stature was determined by linear regression analysis. Results: : It was observed that the model created with MW, CSW1 and CL for stature estimation by linear regression analysis revealed with highest R-2 value (R-2 = 0.416, SEE = 59.33 mm) of the cases. According to the logistic regression analysis, CL or TSL alone showed 85% accuracy in predicting sex. Conclusion: : This study shows that morphometric analysis of the sternum is important for sex and stature estimation in Turkish population and can be used effectively as an alternative in forensic anthropology in cases where only the sternum can be measured.