Author(s)

Adeleke Adegboyega Abiodun^1*, Paul Olugbemiga Awoniran², Omobola Aderibigbe Komolafe¹, Adebowale Oyewumi Tanimowo¹

¹Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria.
²Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria.

Pedicle screw is employed in several cases of spine disorders such as fractures, pseudarthrosis, spondylolisthesis, degenerative changes among others. Its essence is to fix the vertebral body in position until fusion is complete. The success of this technique depends on factors like choice of size of screw for a particular pedicle size and shape. Thus, adequate knowledge of the morphometry of lumbar pedicle may avert intraoperative and postoperative complications associated with this technique, especially, neurological impairments. In this study, we determined the vertical and horizontal diameters, interpedicular distance and gender differences of 180 lumbar vertebral pedicles (140 male, 40 female pedicles) using digital vernier calipers. Results revealed a significant increase in pedicle height and width from L2 to L5. Interpedicular distance increased significantly down the vertebrae from L2 to L5. Mean vertical and horizontal diameters, interpedicular distance were not significantly different in both sexes. This study recommends a thorough check of individual’s spinal anatomy in pre-operative assessments.

Vertebra, Pedicle Height, Pedicle Width, Interpedicular Distance, Pedicle Screw

Abiodun, A. , Awoniran, P. , Komolafe, O. and Tanimowo, A. (2020) Cadaveric Evaluation of Lumbar Pedicle Morphometry among Nigerians. Journal of Biosciences and Medicines, 8, 1-8. doi: 10.4236/jbm.2020.810001.