Abstract
Introduction
The current methods for measuring femoral torsion have limitations, including variability and inaccuracies. Existing 3D methods are not reliable for abnormal femoral anteversion measurement. A new 3D method is needed for accurate measurement and planning of proximal femoral osteotomies. Currently available software for viewing and modelling CT data lacks measurement capabilities. The MSK Hip planner aims to address these limitations by combining measurement, planning, and analysis functionalities into one tool. We aim to answer 5 key questions: Is there a difference between 2D measurement methods? Is there a difference between 3D measurement methods? Is there a difference between 2D and 3D measurement methods? Are any of the measurement methods affected by the presence of osteoarthritis or a CAM deformity?
Method
After segmentation was carried out on 42 femoral CT scans using Osirix, 3D bone models were landmarked in the MSK lab hip planning software. Murphy's, Reikeras’, McBryde, and the novel MSK lab method were used to measure femoral anteversion.
Result
Murphy's method had the lowest mean femoral neck anteversion (FNA) at 24.98°, while the MSK method had the highest at 28.55°. Bland-Altman plots showed systematic errors between 2D (1.201°) and 3D (1.074°) methods. All methods demonstrated good intra- and inter-user reliability. Significant differences were found between measurement methods and between patient groups.
Conclusion
The MSK Hip Planner software proved useful and convenient to measure FNA. Statistically significant differences in FNA were observed between the measurement methods, as well as between patient groups when split by presence of osteoarthritis and cam deformity. Complex joint pathology and altered femoral morphology should be considered by clinicians when deciding which method to use when measuring FNA.