Accuracy of Mandibular Rami Measurements in Prediction of Sex

Abstract

Background: Sex of an individual can be determined by means of skeletal indicators when soft tissues are not available for analysis. Also, when entire skull is not available for analysis, mandible plays a vital role in prediction of sex. As various studies have proven the accuracy of panoramic radiographs in providing anatomical measurements, the present study was conducted using digital orthopantomographs (OPGs) in the South Indian population for the same.
Aim: To measure and compare various measurements of the ramus in mandible on digital orthopantomographs (OPGs) and to assess the usefulness of such measurements in prediction of sex in an individual.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, observational study was carriedout using 500 digital orthopantomographs (OPGs) with five rami measurements taken for each radiograph in the South Indian population. The determination of sex was done by discriminant function analysis with a prediction accuracy being 84.1% amongst females and 76% amongst males.
Results: All the variables were found to be good predictors for prediction of sex in the study with Condylar height/Maximum ramus height; Projective height of ramus; and Coronoid height, being highly significant.
Conclusion: This study on rami measurements showed that significant sex-related dimorphism is evident in rami of mandibles indicating its potential usage in mass disasters and otherwise in prediction of sex in individuals with disputed identity.

Keywords: Mandibular ramus, Digital Orthopantomographs (OPGs), Prediction of sex