Internal morphology of human phalanges.

The internal morphology of human phalanges has been defined by measurements taken directly from specimens of these bones. For this study, all 14 phalanges were prepared from 25 fresh cadaver hands. Measurements were taken of both external and internal variables. Intramedullary structures are described. In the proximal metaphysis of the phalanges, the canal presents the shape of a tunnel with a flat floor on its palmar aspect and an arching roof dorsally. Distally, toward middiaphysis, the canal becomes more elliptic and its size is smaller relative to the metaphyseal area. This suggests that not only dimensions but also the shape of the canal should be given full consideration in the design of intramedullary devices.