Which formula represents the cranial index?

The cranial index is a measurement used to classify head shapes based on the proportion of the width to the length of the skull. It specifically aims to assess the relative width of the head to its length, which is particularly relevant in fields such as anthropology, cranial surgery, and orthodontics.

When defining the cranial index, the formula used is the width of the head divided by its length, then multiplied by 100 to express the result as a percentage. This standardization allows for easy comparison across different individuals or populations.

By using the formula of width divided by length and then multiplying the result by 100, you derive the cranial index, which provides a straightforward way to categorize skull shapes, where values above or below specific thresholds can indicate variations in head shape that may be of interest in both clinical and research settings.

This understanding is crucial for practitioners in orthotics and prosthetics as it informs their approach to head and facial fitting techniques, especially in pediatric populations or when addressing conditions that affect cranial development.