Anthropometric Study of Clavicle with Its Significance in Sex Determination-A Radiological Study

Objectives Sex determination is an important aspect of forensic anthropometry. The shape of the clavicle can offer indications about a person’s age, and gender. This study aims to explore the effectiveness of the clavicle bone in determining an individual’s sex and to develop a specific equation for predicting sex using X-ray and CT scan images. Materials and Methods The study was conducted using X-rays and CT scans of 131 adults. The samples were distributed into three different age groups: 21-40, 41-60, and 61-80 years. Eleven parameters of the clavicle were measured using clinical imaging software. Statistical analysis was performed on the collected parameters. Results The clavicles were found to be longer in males than in females. The best parameter for predicting males in the age group 21-40 years was the lateral angle of the right clavicle with an accuracy of 74.4%. The best parameter for predicting females in age group 21-40 years was the max. length of left clavicle with an accuracy of 74.4%. The best parameter for predicting both males and females in age group 41-60 years was the max. length of left clavicle with an accuracy of 85.7%. The best parameter for predicting both males and females in age group 61-80 years was the max. length of the left clavicle with an accuracy of 76.9%. Conclusion The results and the equation obtained for the various age groups in this study will help the forensic Anthropologist in identification of sex where the clavicle bone is retrieved from a crime scene.