Observation on the closure of lambdoid suture in relation to age, sex and population variations using a novel radiographic technique – a prospective study

Abstract

Objectives: To study and compare the patterns of lambdoid suture closure bilaterally; to specify any relationship between progression of the union of lambdoid suture and age; to detect sexual and population variations in lambdoid suture closure.

Methodology: A total of 98 subjects of both sexes, 20 years and beyond were included in the study. The state of fusion of the lambdoid suture was examined using a modified reverse panoramic radiograph (RPRg). Frederic’s five-point rating scale was used to assess lambdoid suture closure status. Data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis.

Results: Cohen’s Kappa measure of the agreement gave a figure of 0.96 for intra-examiner testing and 0.97 for inter-examiner testing. These values represent a good agreement. Grade 0 was observed in 16 (16.3%), grade 1 in 44 (44.9%), grade 2 in 09 (9.2%), grade 3 in 13 (13.3%) and grade 4 in 16 (16.3%) of the cases. The maximum numbers of cases were in age group 35–39 (24 (24.4%)) followed by age group 25–29 (19 (19.4%)). In the present study, there were 64 (65.3%) males and 34 (34.7%) females. When the comparison between males and female subjects was made, the closure was earlier in females. Most of the participants belonged to Arabian population (38 (38.7%)) followed by South Asian (33 (33.7%)) and least were from South East Asian population (27 (27.6%)). There were significant differences in suture closure in relation to age but insignificant with respect to sex and population.

Conclusions: Assessment regarding the age of an individual is possible but the sex and population of an individual cannot be determined.