An Observational Study of Human Fetal Acetabulum in Western Tamilnadu

Abstract

Background: Ten percent of congenital dislocation of hip (CDH) is familial. Many previous studies attribute shallow acetabular cavity (dysplasia trait) as the main reason. Anthropological studies revealed different observations of fetal acetabulum, regarding the side and gender involvement of CDH due to varied geographical conditions and genetical traits. With this backdrop, the study was designed to assess the morphological and morphometric parameters of fetal acetabulum in western Tamil Nadu population. Methodology: Thirty fetuses (15 males and 15 females) were obtained from the O and G Department of PSG Institute of Medical Sciences and Research. Fetuses were grouped into three groups under the age criteria as 12–20 weeks, 21–30 weeks, and 31–40 weeks. The diameter, depth, and shape of the acetabulum were observed and documented for gender and side variations. Results: In our study, there was a significant correlation between the parameters taken. With advance in the gestational, there was a significant increase in diameter of the acetabulum. The acetabular cavity had become shallower with an increase in age of the fetus. Conclusions: In our study, there were no significant differences observed in the morphology & morphometry of acetabulum wrt side and gender of the fetuses.