radiographic indices in one hundred fifty normal iranian wrists

abstract background: radiography is the most widely available imaging modality. precise evaluations of wrist x-ray can help diagnosis and evaluate the prognosis of many wrist disorders. methods: we measured length, angles and indices in 150 posteroanterior and lateral wrist x-rays to determine normal dimensions and variations according to age and sex. all x-rays were made with standard exposure, with the wrist and forearm in a neutral position. results: the average carpal height ratio was 0.52±0.03 with the youm method and 1.5±0.09 with the nattrass method. mean ulnar variance was +0.99±1.6 mm and mean radial inclination was 25±4 degrees. the average radial tilt was 10±5.1 degrees. mean scapholunate angle was 50±8.4 degrees (normal range 40 -60). conclusion: carpal height, third metacarpal and capitate length were smaller in women than in men. there was a significant positive relationship between all dimensions. our data base may be used to follow-up in conditions such as carpal instability, osteoarthritis and osteonecrosis, as well as for clinical research.