title: Diagnosis of contact injuries in a mediaeval skeleton analysed by µCT and histology.
abstract: During an archaeological excavation in Altenberg/Linz (Upper Austria), the well-preserved skeletal remains of a mature male dated the 13th century AD were recovered. Several elements of the skeleton yielded alterations caused by trauma: beside a malunion of the left ulna which was accompanied by shortening of the diaphysis, a luxation and deformation of the left radial head was observed (Monteggia-type lesion, Bado-type I). Moreover, at the anterior aspect of the corresponding humerus, a chalice-shaped, newly built bone structure that framed the displaced capitulum radii was visible. This structure formed a sort of "alternative joint" that functionally even allowed some movements, although considerably restricted in regard to flexion/extension and even more in pronation/supination.To verify the assumption of a "single event", we not only investigated the concerned skeletal portions by gross-anatomical examination, but also by non-invasive conventional radiological, micro-computed tomographical, and histological techniques. Particular morphological features, injuries at the calvarium, and fractures of other postcranial elements imply the scenario of a close combat; although survived, the traumata obviously resulted in partial invalidity.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Centre for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria. doris.schamall@meduniwien.ac.at
authors.forename: Doris
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Schamall
authors.forename: Peter
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Pietschmann
authors.forename: Doris
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Moser
authors.forename: Martin
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Dockner
authors.forename: Maria
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Teschler-Nicola
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001317:Austria; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000266:history*; D049691:History, Medieval; D006801:Humans; D004204:Joint Dislocations / Q000266:history*; D008297:Male; D009104:Multiple Trauma / Q000266:history*; D012887:Skull Fractures / Q000266:history*; D055114:X-Ray Microtomography / Q000379:methods*