The Maximum Length of Vascularized Fibular Bone Graft: Estimation Using Skin Landmarks in a Thai Population

• Main Authors: Pichai Vittayakittipong, Niruslan Yiamkhamnuan
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Prince of Songkla University 2012-12-01
• Series: Journal of Health Science and Medical Research (JHSMR)
• Subjects: fibula; skin landmark; vascularized fibular bone graft
• Online Access: https://www.jhsmr.org/index.php/jhsmr/article/view/301

Objective: This study aimed to estimate the maximum vascularized fibular bone length (MVFL) using skin landmarks in a group of Thai people, and to determine the relationship between MVFL and body height, body weight, body mass index, and sport types. Material and Methods: A total of 100 subjects aged over 20 years old, who attended the Dental Hospital at Prince of Songkla University, were enrolled in this study (46 males and 54 females). Demographic data and sport types (weight and non-weight bearing) were collected. Body weight, body height and the fibular length estimated from skin landmarks between the fibular head and lateral malleolus were measured. The MVFL was calculated by subtracting 12 cm. from the length of the fibular bone. Data was analyzed with descriptive statistics. Significant differences were assessed by Student t-test. The relationship between the MVFL and other factors were determined using Pearson’s correlation. Statistical difference was set at p<0.05. Results: The mean MVFL estimated from the skin landmarks was 22.08±2.16 cm. ranging from 17.30-28.60 cm. The MVFL significantly correlated with body height and weight (p<0.01). Conclusion: The mean MVFL in this group of Thais estimated by skin landmarks was 22.08 cm. The MVFL estimated by the skin landmarks is a useful method in clinical application.