Morphological classification and measurement of the glenoid cavity using three-dimensional reconstruction in a Chinese population.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to examine the various shapes and record the morphometric data of the glenoid cavity in a Chinese population. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 501 scapulae, 247 left and 254 right, were analysed. We classified the shape of the glenoid cavity as type I (pear-shaped), type II (oval-shaped), type III (teardrop-shaped), type IV (calabash-shaped) or type V (inverted comma-shaped). Four defined parameters, the superior-inferior glenoid diameter (AB), upper anterior-posterior glenoid diameter (CD), lower anterior-posterior glenoid diameter (EF) and glenoid index (GI), were measured, and five shapes were classified via three-dimensional reconstruction. RESULTS: The mean AB, CD, EF and GI values of the glenoid were 3.51 ± 0.41 cm, 1.95 ± 0.28 cm, 2.60 ± 0.34 cm, and 1.35 ± 0.12 cm, respectively. The AB value of type II glenoid cavities was significantly smaller than that of type I and III glenoid cavities (p < 0.05), but the GI value of type II glenoid cavities was larger than that of type III cavities (p < 0.05). The CD value showed a difference between type I and type III glenoid cavities (p < 0.05). For the EF parameter, the values of type III glenoid cavities were significantly larger than those of type I and II glenoid cavities (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Measuring and observing the variety of shapes and sizes of the glenoid cavity in Chinese people is conducive to for better understand its morphological features. This information can also guide surgeons in the design and selection of suitable prostheses for total shoulder arthroplasty in the Chinese population in order to reduce postoperative complications.