The investigation of the number and localization of the foramen nutricium on the clavicle and its relationship with other clavicular parameters

Abstract

Abstract Purpose The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between the location and number of foramen nutricium (FN) on the clavicle and other clavicular parameters. Methods This study was performed on 86 dry clavicles (46 left, 40 right). Morphometric measurements were measured with a digital caliper. Results The most of the bones had a single FN. There was no FN on 3 bones, and there were 4 FN on 2 bones. The right-left side differences in the sagittal and vertical thickness of the sternal end (STs and VTs, respectively), the distance of the FN to the sternal end and the posterior edge (DFS and DFpost, respectively) and the foraminal index (FI) were statistically significant. There was a positive correlation between some FN parameters and clavicular parameters. FN was mostly located in Type 2 and was mostly located in the inferior face. The bones without FN were longer and thicker. The vertical and sagittal thickness of the thinnest point of the clavicle was greater in bones with 4 FN. Conclusion It was observed that there was a relationship between the number and location of the FN and its morphometric features, and many clavicular parameters. Knowing the location of the FN on the clavicle is important for protecting the nutrient artery in orthopedic surgery applications.