Three-dimensional modelling and morphometric investigation of computed tomography images of brown bear's (Ursus arctos) ossa cruris (Zeugopodium)

Abstract

Background: This study was aimed to examine the detailed morphometrical and morphological characteristics of the bone by creating three-dimensional images through multidetector computed tomography images of ossa cruris in brown bears. Materials and methods: Four brown bear ossa cruris were used in the study. Results: It was observed that tibia and fibula articulated at proximal and distal epiphysis and they combined, and ossa cruris were shaped in this way. Cochlea tibiae were determined to be sagittally oriented. The length of the tibia was determined to be 268.97 mm and 266.32 mm at right and left sides, respectively. The length of the fibula was determined to be 249.16 mm and 250.19 mm on average at the right and left sides, respectively. In consequence of the correlation analysis, statistical relationships at different rates were detected between the measured values. Conclusions: Detailed anatomical examinations are very important in terms of determining the similarities and differences of bear bones with those of the other species in the order Carnivora. Therefore, it is thought that this study will reveal detailed characteristics of ossa cruris of bears and provide data for further studies on archaeological and forensic sciences.