Examination of variation in sternal rib end morphology relevant to age assessment

The morphology of the sternal end of the right fourth rib has been proffere d as an accurate age assessor in skeletonized individuals of both sexes. Th is technique was tested for its applicability on left and right II, III, V- IX. Tests were performed between phase scores obtained from right and left ribs; right rib IV phase scores and scores obtained from the others in the right rib series; and between right rib IV scores and a composite score com posed of the average of an individual's phase scores (omitting rib IV). Lef t ribs IV-IX were found not to vary significantly from their right counterp arts. Although only right rib II was found to vary significantly from rib I V, use of the other ribs in the series should be undertaken with caution du e to questions concerning their statistical significance. A composite score is therefore recommended for use instead.