Normal Age-Related Alterations on Distal Radius Radiography

Background: The present study was designed to ascertain serial changes on distal radius radiographic parameters attributable to aging. Methods: In this prospective study, the sample consisted of 120 healthy individuals who were divided into four age groups each containing 15 males and 15 females. In the two below-20-year-old groups, only ulnar variance could be investigated. Wrist radiography was taken and then parameters of the distal radius were measured and compared based on age and sex. Results: Average UV was -2.48 mm and -1.6 mm in the 2-9 and 10-19-year-old age groups, respectively. Also, in the two above-20-year-old groups, the average radial inclination (RI), palmar tilt (PT), radial length (RL), and UV was 23.7º, 12.4º, 10.5 and +1.1 mm, respectively. Considering ulnar variance, no significant difference was found between the 2-9- and 10-19-year-old groups, as well as among the two above-20-year-old groups. However, a significant difference was observed between the below 20 and above 20 groups. The study results showed no significant differences between males and females in any of the study groups. Discussion: There is significant ulnar variance change toward less negative ulnar variance with aging until maturity.