Morphometry of neck-shaft angle in dried femora of the central Indian population and its clinical implications

Introduction: The neck-shaft angle (NSA) is the angle formed by the neck axis and the long axis of the femur. Knowledge of this angle facilitates the preoperative planning of osteotomy, arthroplasty, or fracture fixation. It also helps in designing suitable implants with more accurate angulations of the femur neck. Hence, the present study aimed at giving ready reference data to clinicians of the femoral NSA in the Central Indian population. Materials and Methods: A total of 153 dried femora, 78 of the right side and 75 of the left side of unknown sex and age were obtained from the Department of Anatomy, Pt. J. N. M Medical College, Raipur. NSAs were measures and statistically correlated with laterality using “Independent t-test,” P value was obtained. Results: Mean NSA of right-sided femora was 133.88°C ± 15.04°C (range from 103°C to 160°C) and of left-sided femora was 132.81°C ± 15.81°C (Range from 106°C to 160°C). No significant difference in values of NSA was found in the right and left-sided femora. Conclusion: The outcome of this study can be used as a ready reference data by orthopedicians, physiotherapists, and prosthesis designers for the central Indian population. Knowledge of normal value would also be helpful in making the clinical diagnosis of femur neck fractures and coxa vera.