Evaluation of measurement reliability in digital morphometric measurements in relation to professional experience and technology habits

Abstract

Purpose Morphometric data quality depends on validity-how well a tool measures its intended variable-and reliability-the consistency of repeated measurements. This study investigates how the reliability of digital morphometric measurements correlates with the measurer's level of professional experience and their patterns of technology usage. Methods A total of 21 medical students (inexperienced group) and 18 anatomists (experienced group) participated in the study. Participants first filled out a questionnaire addressing demographic information, experience levels, and technology usage behaviors. Following this, they underwent a 2-hour training session on ImageJ, a software utilized for digital morphometric analysis. Participants were then instructed to measure seven parameters (five linear, two angular) on images of 10 individuals, performing the measurements at multiple time points. Reliability was evaluated using the technical error of measurement (TEM), relative technical error of measurement (rTEM), and coefficient of reliability (R). Statistical analysis included Chi-square tests for categorical data and Mann-Whitney U tests for continuous variables, using SPSS 22. Results There were no statistically significant differences between groups regarding gender distribution and hand dominance (p > 0.05), although notable differences in age and technology usage patterns were observed (p < 0.05). The experienced participants showed more frequent use of ImageJ (p < 0.05). Following the training, both groups showed comparable measurement times and reliability outcomes (p > 0.05). Conclusion The findings suggest that, with sufficient instruction, digital morphometric assessments using ImageJ can yield reliable results regardless of the user's level of professional experience, underscoring the critical role of training in digital measurement proficiency.