Morphometric Study of Anatomical Variations of the Acromion Process in Libyan Adults in Benghazi using CT scans, and their Clinical Implications
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.68706/amjs.26203Keywords:
Acromion Process, Subacromial Impingement Syndrome, Anatomical VariationsAbstract
The acromion process of the scapula extends anterolaterally and passes over the glenohumeral joint, creating the subacromial space between the acromion and the humeral head. Important functional structures (bursa, ligaments, tendons) pass through this space, risking impingement or injury. Subacromial impingement syndrome (SIS) is a common musculoskeletal issue faced worldwide; thus, studying acromion morphology is of great importance for its clinical implications in acromioplasty - the recommended intervention for SIS. Prevailing theories of SIS include the acromion’s morphology and angle as anatomical factors. This retrospective study aims to determine the anatomical variations of acromion processes among adults in Benghazi, Libya. Computed tomography (CT) scans obtained from Al-Jala Teaching Hospital from January 2024 to December 2024 were used in this study. CT scans were all of patients aged 18 and over, and the female-to-male ratio was 1.18:1. In addition to parameter measurements, each acromion was classified using Bigliani et al.’s (1986) acromion classification. This study found that type II (curved) was the most frequent acromion shape among Libyan adults. No statistical significance was observed in terms of correlating acromion shapes to sex (score = 0.709 > p-value = 0.05), nor was it significant in terms of left versus right scapulae (score = 0.650 > p-value = 0.05). Acromion process morphology and parameters vary among Libyan adults. Clinical implications for surgeons and radiologists include surgical intervention for musculoskeletal injury, which is discussed, and thus highlights the need for preoperative imaging of the acromion.
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