Sex determination from the piriform aperture using multi slice computed tomography: Discriminant function analysis of Egyptian population in Minia Governorate

Abstract

Objective: Sex determination from fragmentary remains is one of the most important tasks of a forensic expert. Since several studies have demonstrated that discriminant function equations used to determine the sex of a skeleton are population specific, the purpose of the present study was to determine whether the piriform aperture is a useful criterion for sex determination in fragmented skulls and derive an equation for the dimensions of the piriform aperture. Subjects & methods: 3D-MSCT was done to 250 patients with non-rhinologic problems (150 male & 100 female). The maximal length (height), maximal width and area of piriform aperture were measured to demonstrate the difference according to sex. Data were analyzed by SPSS version 16. Results: all measurements showed significant sexual differences. The maximal width showed the highest percentage of accuracy in sex determination followed by maximal length and area. The percentage of accuracy of maximal width was 86.2% in females and 64.5% in males. Conclusion: Finally, it is concluded that the dimensions of the piriform aperture can be used as a useful tool for sex determination.

Keywords

• Piriform aperture
• Sex determination
• Computed tomography
• Discriminant function