A PILOT STUDY ON MORPHOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF THE OCCIPITAL CONDYLE
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48047/Keywords:
Atlanto-occipital dislocation; Cervical spine injury; Occipital condyle; Morphometric analysis; Comparative morphology; Craniovertebral junction; Neurovascular damage; Cranial landmarks; Craniofacial anatomy.Abstract
In the present study, the most commonly observed types of occipital condyles were oval, followed by circular
and two-portioned shapes. Occipital condyles are small bilateral extensions of the occipital bone that hold
crucial implications for neurosurgical practice due to their association with various disease processes affecting
the craniovertebral junction. A comprehensive understanding of the bony anatomy and variations in occipital
condyles is imperative for optimising neurosurgical approaches. The primary objective of this study is to
conduct an in-depth investigation of occipital condyles. We examined 40 dry human skulls, meticulously
measuring various parameters such as length, breadth, anterior, and posterior intercondylar distances. The
shapes of occipital condyles were classified into distinct types: oval, circular, eight-shaped, kidney-shaped,
deformed, two-portioned, oval convex, and pyramid. The documented parameters of occipital condyles and
their variations are poised to serve as invaluable guidelines for future surgeons. Possessing a thorough
understanding of occipital condyle morphometry can significantly facilitate the instrumentation process,
mitigating the risk of neurovascular damage. We firmly believe that the outcomes of our research will
establish a comprehensive reference database, aiding in the development of implants and the formulation of
optimal surgical approaches tailored to the intricacies of occipital condyles.
