Age estimation by morphological study ofsternal end of ribs is one of the best methods for age estimation in adult unknown dead bodies and skeletal remains. The present study was based on the method developed by 1scan et alfor American white1,2 populations. Both sided sternal fourth ribs were collected at autopsy from 73 females, only 20 years and above were considered because morphological changes were not observed until this age. Each rib was examined in relation to the pit depth (component-I), pit shape (component-II), and rim & wall configuration (component-III).
The data was designed on a master chart, and analyzed statistically using SPSS programs CROSSTABS, BREAKDOWN and ONE WAY analysis of variance.
Sternum, Age Estimation, Fourth rib
