A Cross Sectional Study of Cephalic Index using Various Measurement Techniques in Varanasi Region of North Indian Population

Abstract

Background: Cephalic Index is defined as the ratio calculated by the occipitofrontal diameter (OFD) to the
biparietal diameter (BPD).
It has been reported that factors like race, ethnicity, genetic interactions, traditions, nutrition, environment, and
climate influences head types.
The multifariousness of our nation fascinates and raises the need for anthropometric studies in various regions
and compare the outcomes.
The cross-sectional study was carried on three different groups/subjects of either sex.
Group 1 comprised of living subjects (Undergraduate students) belonging to this particular region.
Group 2 comprised of those that presented to the radio- diagnosis department of Sir Sunderlal Hospital, IMS,
BHU, UP, India.
Group 3 comprised of dry skulls available in the departmental museum of department of Forensic medicine, IMS,
BHU, UP, India.
The measurement of maximum cranial breadth and maximum cranial length, are taken manually/on DICOM CT
records depending on the group and recorded for analysis.
The average CI in both the sexes and prevalence of the type is classified according to Martin and Saller classification.
(1957)
Objectives: The objectives were to find out the prevalence of the type of skull in the study population. It would
also show the sensitivity of radiology and its efficaciousness in anthropometric measurements. To ascertain the
mean CI,range of maximum cranial breadth and maximum cranial length.
Result: A total of 70% amongst the study population shows dolichocephalisation.
The mean cephalic index in this particular study population was 73.92 ± 5.05.

Maximum cranial breadth ranged from 10.4cms to 16.2cms with a mean breadth of 13.21±0.93.
Maximum cranial length ranged from 15.6 cms to 20.67cms with a mean length of 17.89 ± 0.86.
Conclusion: The observations and findings of the present study based on CT can be replicated in various
communities, castes, and regions of India. The data can also be helpful in establishment of identity particularly
race using skeletal remains.