Abstract

Traditional stature estimation methods often rely on long bone lengths; however, issues like incomplete remains or difficulties in measurement accuracy necessitate exploring alternative approaches. Hand length, while less frequently used, presents a readily accessible measurement with potential predictive power. This review collates and analyzes existing research employing both tibia and hand length measurements, examining various statistical models and equations used to estimate stature, noting sample populations and reported accuracies. Studies demonstrating the efficacy of integrated models are highlighted, often showcasing improved precision when compared to models relying solely on single bone measurements. Variation in the predictive accuracy based on different populations is also noted. The advantages and limitations of integrated models are discussed, considering the potential for reduced error due to individual anatomical variations. Emphasis is on understanding the underlying biological relationships between limb proportions and overall height. This preliminary review suggests that incorporating hand length measurements, in addition to tibia length, has the potential for enhancing stature estimation accuracy, especially in situations where complete long bone measurements are unavailable