Assessment of age in female population by radiographic examination of carpal bones

Abstract

Introduction: Assessment of the age of an individual from the appearance and the fusion of the ossification centers is a well-accepted fact in Medical and Legal professions. In the age estimation of juvenile offenders, radiological examination of bones gives valid idea of age needed in courts. Objectives: Aim was to assess the age of the ossification of carpal bones at wrist joint in females. The objectives were to estimate the age specific difference in all subjects, also to study difference age of ossification in central part of India with other part of country and abroad. Method: After obtaining the ethical clearance the subjects below the age of 20 years residing in central India were included in this study. As per inclusion criteria carpal bones forming wrist joint were examined radiologically with standard accepted procedures and guidelines to assess the age. Result: The outcome of this study was very fruitful and knowledgeable as it revealed age specific difference and remarkable difference in the age of ossification as compared to the foreign countries and other parts of India. Conclusion: Radiological examination plays very vital role in age estimation in judicial cases. It can be concluded that such studies should be conducted with good sample size and at regular intervals for academic as well as in judicial point of view.