Anthropometrical study of the human glenoid in a normal Spanish population

Abstract Objective To evaluate the size of the glenoid in a southern Spanish population, to compare it with previous results from other populations and determine the size of the implants that are marketed for shoulder arthroplasty. Material and methods Between January 2015 and December 2017, an anthropometrical study of the human glenoid was performed using computed axial tomography scans (CT) of 154 patients over 30 years old. The glenoid dimensions were analysed 3-dimensionally using 2 mm interval thicknesses, determining the average height and width of the glenoid. The upper point of the glenoid geometry was determined as the supraglenoid tubercle of the ovoid glenoid surface, where the long head of the biceps tendon is thought to originate. The lower point was then positioned at the furthest point from the upper point on the glenoid contour. Anterior and posterior points were determined such that the 3-dimensional anterior–posterior distance was maximised on the plane perpendicular to the upper–lower axis. Sex differences and correlations between sides and among the respective parameters in the glenohumeral dimensions were also evaluated. Results The glenoid had an average height of 28.78 mm and width of 20.27 mm. The values were significantly different between the men and the women, being greater in the men. The glenoid size is well correlated with the patient's size. Direct correlations exist between the glenoid height and width and the glenoid size and the patient's height. The available metaglenoids currently on the market are no bigger than 25–24 mm. Conclusion In comparison, the southern Spanish population have a glenoid size similar to the Caucasian population, but smaller than that of the American population. The data shown could be useful to improve the design of shoulder prostheses for the southern Spanish population.