Descriptive analysis of the morphology and morphometry of the supinator crest and the tubercle of the ulna in human dry bones

The supinator tubercle and supinator crest of the ulna are important osseous landmarks on the posterolateral elbow and represent the ulnar attachment site of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL), a key stabilizer against posterolateral rotatory instability. Accurate identification of these structures is essential during LUCL reconstruction, yet their position and prominence vary considerably. Understanding the morphometric dimensions of the supinator tubercle and crest in relation to adjacent bony landmarks may improve anatomic graft placement. This study aimed to provide a detailed morphometric analysis of these structures using one hundred adult ulnae. This study provides the first detailed morphometric analysis of the supinator crest and tubercle, highlighting side-to-side variability. In cases where the tubercle is not prominent, the position of the tubercle will be identified by using anatomical landmarks like the posterior and anterior cortices, olecranon process, and its relationship with the supinator crest, which offer practical guidance for safe and accurate LUCL reconstruction.