INCIDENCE OF THE SUPRACONDYLAR SPUR OF THE HUMERUS IN CENTRAL INDIAN POPULATION: A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: The supracondylar spur of the humerus is a hook-like, bony spine that protrudes distally from the humerus's antero-medial surface. It is located around 5 cm from the medial epicondyle. Its length ranges between 2 and 20 mm. Ligament of Struthers may be used to connect the supracondylar spur to the medial epicondyle in some circumstances. The brachial artery and the median nerve may travel beneath the band, making it prone to compression.

Aims & objectives: The goal of this study was to see how common supracondylar spur is in Central Indian dry humeri, as it can help with the differential diagnosis of supracondylar syndrome.

Materials and Methods: 224 dried humeri from tertiary healthcare centres in Central India were studied for the period of three years in the departments of Anatomy and Forensic Medicine, including 106 from the right side and 118 from the left. The bones were thoroughly inspected for the presence of a supracondylar spur. A digital calliper was used to collect measurements after the findings.

Results: Only two left-sided humeri out of 224 dried humeri studied had a supracondylar spur, which was triangular in shape and projected forwards and medially from the anteromedial surface. The spur protruded 0.4 cm from the surface, with a vertical length of 1 cm and a width of 0.8 cm. The medial epicondyle was 5.2 cm away from the spur.

Conclusion: The supracondylar spur is a natural anatomical variation rather than a chronic disease of the bone. Compression of the median nerve and claudication of the brachial artery are possible side effects.

Key Words: Supracondylar Spur, Humerus, Median Nerve, Brachial artery and Supracondylar Syndrome.