Age-related Changes in the Pubic Symphysis
Author Information
Author(s): Kim Yuyoung, Lee Kang-Woo, Lee Sookyoung, Woo Eun Jin, Hu Kyung-Seok
Primary Institution: Yonsei University College of Dentistry
Hypothesis
This study aimed to elucidate the direction and extent of morphological changes in the pubic symphyseal surface across different age groups.
Conclusion
The study visualized significant age-related morphological changes in the pubic symphyseal surface, which can improve age-at-death estimation techniques in forensic anthropology.
Supporting Evidence
- Computed tomography scans were used to visualize morphological changes.
- Statistical shape modeling provided insights into age-related changes.
- Significant changes were noted particularly between the 20s and 30s age groups.
Takeaway
As people get older, the shape of a specific part of their pelvis changes, and this study helps us understand those changes better so we can tell how old someone was when they died.
Methodology
The study used computed tomography (CT) scans and statistical shape modeling (SSM) to analyze the pubic symphyseal surface of 252 subjects.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the exclusion of individuals with evident pathology and damage in the pubic bones.
Limitations
The study focused only on South Korean individuals and did not account for factors like pregnancy and childbirth that could affect female morphology.
Participant Demographics
The sample included 18 males and 18 females in each age group from their twenties to eighties.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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