Morphometric Measurements of Scapular and Suprascapular Notch in the Nigerian Population

Abstract

The underrepresentation of Sub-Saharan African populations in global morphometric databases limits the accuracy of medical and forensic work. This study establishes measurement standards for Nigerian scapulae through detailed anatomical analysis. A total of 347 adult Nigerian scapulae (181 males, 166 females) from the Yoruba (38.6%), Hausa-Fulani (33.1%), and Igbo (28.3%) groups were studied using standard measuring tools and digital imaging. We measured 14 features, focusing on scapular dimensions, the glenoid cavity, and the suprascapular notch. Detailed statistical analysis revealed that Nigerians have smaller scapular dimensions than Europeans and predominantly a long, narrow scapular form. Researchers noted apparent sexual dimorphism and correctly identified sex in 94.8% of cases. Type IV suprascapular notches, linked to higher nerve risks, occurred in 11.7% of samples. Our findings underscore the need for population-specific medical and forensic standards for Nigerians. One tangible impact of these findings is on implant sizing in orthopaedic surgery, where applying our Nigerian-specific data will ensure more accurate and safer surgical outcomes than those achieved with existing international standards. Such adjustments are crucial to avoid the pitfalls of adopting European sizes, which may lead to improper fittings and increased complication rates.