Quantitative and Morphometric Evaluation of the Foramina Nutricia in the Long Bones of the Upper and Lower Extremities in Anatolian Population

Aim: This study is aimed to examine the nutrient foramina of the upper and lower extremities regarding to their numbers and localizations. Material and Method: Totally; 576 long bones of upper and lower extremities were examined. Each of these bones were divided into 3 regions equally as proximal, distal and middle parts. The measurements were done by using a 80*0.38 mm needle. Results: In the comparison of humerus and femur; a single nutrient foramen was found in the middle part of humerus in 78.7% and in the proximal part of femur in 55.2% of the bones. Double nutrient foramina were detected in 70.8% on middle part of humerus and 44.2% on proximal part of femur and 48.3% on middle part of femur. We only observed a single foramen in radius and fibula. It was in proximal part of radius with a ratio of 52.7% and in middle part with a ratio of 47.3%. However in fibula, a single foramen was found in the middle part of the bones with a ratio of 79.7%. A single nutrient foramen was found in proximal part of ulna in 73.6% and in middle part in 26.4%. The tibia had a single nutrient foramen in its proximal part in 98.3%. Conclusion: Statistical difference of localization of foramen nutricium in comparative bones was determined when this study was examined macroanatomically. These results give new data to the literature by the view of not only the side of anatomy but also the side of anthropology. However this is very important for the surgeons who are interested microvascular bone transfer and fracture treatment