The authors conducted a cadaveric study to investigate and analyse the variability of the mean distances of the extra-ocular muscle insertion sites from the limbus as well as corneal diameters. The study included measurements taken from 30 white cavaders; 50% female, with mean age of 81.86 (SD 12.27) years. Mean measured insertion distances from the limbus were: medial rectus, 5.28, inferior rectus 5.72, lateral rectus 6.40, and superior rectus 6.78mm. In comparison to historical benchmark measurements, all of these were significantly shorter. Maximum distances of the rectus muscles from the limbus were all greater than historical benchmarks: medical rectus 6.4, inferior rectus 7.3mm, lateral rectus 7.4 and superior rectus 7.8mm. Female insertions were shorter than males by a mean of 0.5mm. Mean corneal diameter was 11.7x10.7mm with female measurements smaller than males, and similar to historical benchmarks. The authors conclude that variability now exists in comparison the original Spiral of Tillaux measurements with further variation between males and females.
Cadaveric measurements of the Spiral of Tillaux
Reviewed by Fiona Rowe
The Spiral of Tillaux: dead on accurate; a cadaveric study.
CONTRIBUTOR
Fiona Rowe (Prof)
Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, UK.
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