Morphometric and morphological evaluation of the fovea capitis femoris

Abstract

Aim: This study was performed to examine morphometric and morphological characteristics of the fovea capitis femoris (FCF) on the dry femur to determine its location and morphological types. Material and Method: FCF was analyzed morphometrically and morphologically on 58 dry adult femora (27 right; 23 left) and their digital images. Dimensions and surface area of the FCF were measured using a digital caliper on dry bone and ImageJ software on digital images. Results: The transverse length of the FCF (p < 0.001) and surface area of the FCF (p = 0.007) were found to be greater in the left femur bones than in the right femur bones. Type 1 localization was the most common localization type of the FCF. The most common morphological type was found as oval-shaped FCF (43.8%), followed by round (40.4%), triangular (10.5%), and piriform shape types (5.3%). Conclusion: This study indicates that FCF was located mostly posteroinferior quadrant and is usually oval or round in shape. Findings obtained in the present study could provide useful information in both clinical and anthropological practice.