Poor clinical outcomes following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) can be related to improper alignment of the components. The main challenge is the variability in biomechanical references, especially in cases of severe deformity or dysplasia, and in determining the surgical landmarks intraoperatively. An intraoperative imaging tool can be very useful to assess the alignments when there is still a chance for correction. We investigated, on cadaveric specimens, the accuracy of using iso-centric (ISO-C) imaging (that reconstructs 3D from multiple 2D fluoroscopic images) for this purpose. Six fresh frozen cadaveric knees were implanted with a standard TKA system and imaged using an ISO-C 3D C-arm (Arcadis Orbic ISO-C). Each knee was scanned two times with the Iso-C scanner and with appropriate image settings to capture the transepicondylar axis (TEA) and the tibial tubercle individually. A CT scan of each specimen was acquired as the reference for comparison. The ISO-C 3D reconstructed volumes were analyzed on the C-arm. For the CT images, the 3D data were processed in Analyze software with the same objective. The surgical and clinical TEA was determined by moving and rotating an oblique cutting plane (Figure 1a:CT and 1c:ISO-C). This oblique slice was then moved distally to picture the femoral pegs (Figure 1b:CT and 1d:ISO-C). The angle between these two references (angle α in Figure 1) defined the rotational alignment. For the tibial component, the first cutting slice was oriented parallel to the component. A second slice was defined just distal to the component, and then moved distally to find the tibial tubercle in the third slice. The orientation of the tibial component was determined by fitting a rectangular box to the component boundary (Figure 2a:CT and 2d:ISO-C). The bone orientation was defined by a line connecting the centroid of a polygon drawn over the boundary of the cortical bone (Figure 2b:CT and 2e:ISO-C) to the medial third of the tibial tubercle (Figure 2c:CT and 2f:ISO-C). Measurements were repeated five times, the overall accuracies determined in comparison to CT, and the correlation between the ISO-C and CT determined by the Spearman rank (Introduction
Methods
Early diagnosis of delayed- and non-union tibial fractures is difficult, but treatment options are available if timely data are available. Direct correlation between implant forces and healing status is difficult during stance phase loading due to soft tissue forces. This ongoing study seeks to find a minimal set of strain gauge sites needed to determine healing at any of several fracture sites, using isometric loading suitable for routine clinical usage. A series of instrumented tibial nails are being used to help determine whether an alternative technology can replace or augment existing routine methods for assessment of fracture healing. In a prior study, a single strain gauge positioned close to the fracture site had produced mixed results. In the current study, a TRIGEN META NAIL, 10mm OD x 380mm long, was instrumented with 8 gauged sites spiraled down the nail at 34mm axial and 120deg angular separation (Gen1), and loaded in a Sawbone model in offset axial compression, 3 point bending and torque. In order to gain early clinical results, and in a design informed by the Gen1 data, a set of instrumented nails have been made for an ovine wireless telemetry study (Gen3a), shortly to commence, in which the tibial nail has been over-gauged enabling multiple d.o.f. measurements to be made during gait, torque, axial compression and 3 point bending; the latter protocols offering more controlled patient postures. This study is to be followed by a similar human study (Gen3) involving five subjects (12 gauges per nail). Meanwhile, a parallel biomechanical study involving six nails with 20 gauges each is also planned. In the Gen1 study, the strains diminished with distance from the fracture site and with out-of-plane sites during bending. During torque, however, the response was much more uniform for all strain sites. Significant increases in strains due to both loading regimes were seen in the fractured case vs. an intact bone. Preliminary conclusions are that strains measured due to applied torque may offer a more sensitive and fracture site-independent means of assessing healing than induced bending. We now aim to confirm these observations in animal and human studies.
This study aims to determine the value of MRI in children with hip pain which remained unexplained following routine investigations including ultrasound examination. Retrospective review of clinical notes and MRI findings in all children who received and MRI scan for undiagnosed hip pain over three years.Aim
Materials and methods
Seven knees from seven donors (2M:5F; age:46+/−11) were scanned three times via QCT (GE Lightspeed; BMD Phantom; 0.625x0.625x0.625mm resolution). CTTOMASD regional analyses were performed for medial and lateral compartments; outputting density versus depth plots fit with polynomial regression equations. As density decreases with increased depth from the subchondral surface, a density threshold of 300mg/ cm3 was arbitrarily set to correspond with the safe resurfacing depth. The 300mg/cm3 density threshold corresponds to the average density of subchondral trabecular bone, and is ~2x the density of weak epiphyseal trabecular bone located beneath stiffer subchondral trabecular bone. Precision was defined using coefficients of variation (CV%). In-vivo precision errors associated with CT-TOMASD safe resurfacing depths were less than 2.7%. CV% was 2.7% for the medial compartment depth and 2.6% for the lateral compartment depth. CT-TOMASD demonstrates repeatable measures of safe resurfacing depths invivo. Safe resurfacing depths are measured in relation to defined density thresholds which can be adjusted according to UKA design and patient specifics (e.g., size, sex). CT induces a low radiation dosage due to the low presence of radiosensitive tissues at the knee (~1/10th of a long-leg standing radiograph). CT-TOMASD has potential to be used as a pre-operative imaging technique for improved UKA stability and longevity.
Delayed gadolinium-enhanced MRI of cartilage (dGEMRIC) permits inference of glycosaminoglycan (GAG) distribution. We aimed to determine whether hips with cam deformities have altered GAG content, using dGEMRIC.
2 regions of interest (ROI) were studied:
acetabular cartilage from 12 to 3 O’Clock (T1-Index-acet). total cartilage (femoral and acetabular) for the joint from 9 to 3 O’Clock (T1-Indextotal). The average of all pixels within the given ROI defined the T1-index. For each hip, the ratio of the GAG content T1-Index-acet/T1-Indextotal was calculated. Mean T1-Indexto-tal and T1-Indexacet/T1-Indextotal were compared.
The Dynesys is a flexible posterior stabilization system that is designed to preserve intersegmental kinematics and reduce loading at the facet joints. The purpose of this study was to determine if the length of the Dynesys spacer has an effect on range of motion (ROM) at the implanted level. Spacer length was found to significantly affect ROM in all three loading directions with and without a follower preload. The longer spacer increased ROM and the shorter spacer decreased ROM, largely due to differences in segmental compression between the two. The Dynesys, a flexible posterior stabilization system that provides an alternative to fusion, is designed to preserve intersegmental kinematics and alleviate loading at the facet joints. Recent biomechanical evidence suggests that motion with Dynesys is less than the intact spine (Schmoelz, 2003). The purpose of this investigation was to determine if the length of the Dynesys spacer contributes to differences in range of motion (ROM) at the implanted level. Ten cadaveric lumbar spine segments (L2-L5) were tested by applying a pure moment of ±7.5Nm in three directions of loading with and without a follower preload of 600N. Test conditions included: intact, injury at L3-L4, Dynesys at L3-L4 (standard spacer), long spacer (+2mm), and short spacer (−2mm). Intervertebral rotations were measured using an optoelectronic camera. Pressure sensors placed inside the joint capsules measured facet loads. Statistical significance was determined using repeated measures ANOVA. Spacer length had a significant effect on ROM in all three loading directions with and without a follower preload. Initial contact loads within the facet joints were 150% and 64% that of the standard spacer for the short and long spacer, respectively. The magnitude of distraction of the segment affects ROM. Shorter spacers increased segmental compression of the intervertebral disc and facet joints and therefore reduced ROM. With a follower preload, the segment is further compressed and ROM is further reduced. The results contribute to an understanding of the design of such implants and could help guide future research.
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We have evaluated the function of a trabecular metal augmentation patella to restore knee kinetics and kinematics after revision total knee arthroplasty. An “Oxford type” rig was used with fresh frozen cadaveric knees, for an active model that maximally retained the soft tissue envelope. Investigating the force through the extensor mechanism, we found a statistically significant difference between the TKA before and after patelloplasty, which was abolished by the insertion of the augmentation patella. Investigation patella tracking, we found a statistically significant difference between the TKA before and after patelloplasty, that was rectified by the insertion of the augmentation patella. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the kinetic and kinematic function of a new trabecular metal augmentation patella. Investigating the force through the extensor mechanism, we found a statistically significant difference between the TKA before and after patelloplasty, which was abolished by the insertion of the augmentation patella. Investigation patella tracking, we found a statistically significant difference between the TKA before and after patelloplasty, that was rectified by the insertion of the augmentation patella. This study demonstrates that the augmentation patella restorers the abnormal tracking and higher extensor mechanism forces seen after patelloplasty in revision TKA to those normal after a TKA. The mean, maximum extensor mechanism force in extension for the TKA group as compared to the patelloplasty group (p=0.0000032), reduced to near normal with the augmentation patella (p=0.198). The mean, maximum patella maltracking in extension for the TKA group as compared to the patelloplasty group (p=0.025), reduced to near normal with the augmentation patella (p=0.301). Eight frozen human cadaveric knees (mean age sixty-eight years) were prepared for an “Oxford type” knee rig. Alignment ands offset were addressed and the soft tissue envelope kept as intact as possible. A load cell was introduced into the extensor mechanism. Femoral, patella and tibial motion were assessed using the Optotrak system. Patella bone loss at revision TKA remains an unsolved problem, with the patella often too thin to accept a new prosthesis. Leaving the patella shell to articulate against the femoral component can lead to disappointing results.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is characterized by anterior knee pain during activities such as squatting that is thought to be caused by abnormal patellar motion. However, the causative role has yet to be verified since it is difficult to measure the three-dimensional kinematics of the patellofemoral joint (PFJ) The purpose of our study was to determine how accurately a fluoroscopy-based method measures patellar tracking. Our method measures three-dimensional PFJ kinematics with sufficient accuracy to be of clinical value in assessing dynamic motion. Patellar tracking can be assessed during aggravating activities to identify specific tracking abnormalities related to anterior knee pain. Four cadaver knees were imaged using computed tomography (CT). Surface models were generated and the coordinates of implanted tantalum beads (in the femur, patella, and tibia) were determined. A series of fluoroscopic images were taken with the knees loaded in a rig at various flexion angles. Each calibrated fluoroscopic image was registered to the CT model using a point-based method such that the high-resolution CT model was matched to the position of knee flexion associated with each fluoroscopic image. The patellar orientation and position relative to the femur was then reconstructed and described using a gyroscopic joint coordinate system. Measurements were made under the same test conditions using the established uniplanar RSA technique. Fluoroscopy-based and RSA-based measures of patellar orientation and position were compared. The mean measurement error (SD) for patellar flexion, spin, and tilt was 1.86 (1.55), 1.16 (1.14), and 1.15 (1.10) degrees, respectively. For proximal, lateral and anterior patellar translation, the mean measurement error (SD) was 2.11 (2.16), 0.59 (0.47), and 1.24 (1.18) mm, respectively. The accuracy of the fluoroscopy-based method of measuring PFJ kinematics was poorer than the reported accuracy of RSA but appears to be sufficiently low to be of clinical value.
We evaluated the accuracy of a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)-based method to measure three-dimensional patellar tracking during loaded knee flexion. This method determines the relative positions of the knee bones by shape matching high-resolution three-dimensional geometric models of these bones to fast low-resolution scans taken during loaded flexion. The accuracy of the method’s assessment of patellar position and orientation was determined by comparing test measurements in four cadaver specimens to measurements made in the same specimens using Roentgen Stereophotogrammetric Analysis (RSA). This MRI-based method is more accurate than current two-dimensional imaging methods. The purpose of this study was to determine the accuracy of a MRI-based technique for measuring patellar tracking in loaded flexion. This novel, noninvasive, MRI-based method measures three-dimensional patellar tracking during loaded knee flexion with sufficient accuracy to detect clinically significant changes. Although abnormal patellar tracking is widely believed to be associated with pain and cartilage degeneration at the patella, these relationships have not been clearly established because most current methods assess only the two-dimensional alignment of the patella at one position. Measurements possible with this method should be sufficiently accurate to yield new insights into these relationships. Four cadaver knee specimens were flexed through seventy-five degrees of flexion in an MRI-compatible knee loading rig. A high-resolution image was acquired with each knee in extension and then a series of low-resolution scans (in two slice directions: axial and sagittal) were acquired through a flexion cycle. Segmenting bone outlines from high-resolution scans generated models of the femur, tibia and patella. These models were shape matched to the segmented bone outlines in the low resolution scans. Patellar attitude and position were determined and compared to measurements made using RSA. The mean measurement error in every kinematic parameter was lower for “fast” sagittal plane slices than for “fast” axial plane slices. In general, the mean measurement error was increased by decreasing the number of low-resolution slices. This method is more accurate than many two-dimensional methods, exposes participants to no ionizing radiation, and can be used through a large range of loaded knee flexion.
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The prospective evaluation of two hundred and seven symptomatic total knee arthroplasties presenting for revision total knee arthroplasty is reported. On univariate analysis patients who had infection differed significantly (p<
.001) from those without infection with regards to: elevated ESR, CRP, positive aspiration, and history of; revision procedure less than two years since last surgery, early wound problems, ongoing pain since index procedure, and discharging wound. On multivariate analysis elevated ESR or CRP, positive aspiration, pain since index procedure and early wound complications were significant predictors of infection (p<
.05). These variables were then used to formulate an evidence-based multivariate predictive algorithm to assist the clinician in decision making prior to surgery. Differentiating septic from aseptic failure of total knee arthroplasty on the basis of clinical features and diagnostic tests can be troublesome for the clinician. The purpose of this paper is to describe significant differences between cases of septic and aseptic failure of total knee arthroplasty. The incorporation of these variables into a practical multivariate clinical prediction algorithm can provide assistance in establishing the diagnosis of infection prior to revision knee arthroplasty. A simple clinical prediction algorithm can assist in the diagnosis of infection in patients with painful total knee arthroplasty. Patients with five of five criteria have a 99% probability of infection whereas patients with zero of five criteria have a 1% probability of infection. This is the first multivariate evidence-based clinical prediction algorithm presented for use in decision making prior to revision total knee arthroplasty. The surgeon can use the information derived from clinical and laboratory assessment to compute an approximate pre-operative probability of infection prior to surgery (see table). On multivariate analysis elevated ESR or CRP, positive aspiration, pain since index procedure and early wound complications were significant predictors of infection (p<
.05). These variables were then used to formulate an evidence-based multivariate predictive algorithm to assist in clinical decision making. Prospective data was collected on two hundred and seven symptomatic knee arthroplasties presenting for revision arthroplasty. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to determine the probability of infection using five significant variables. Combinations of these five variables can provide the clinician with an estimate of the probability of infection prior to revision knee arthroplasty. Please contact author for tables and/or charts.
We have evaluated the function of a trabecular metal augmentation patella to restore knee kinetics and kinematics after revision total knee arthroplasty. An “Oxford type” rig was used with fresh frozen cadaveric knees, for an active model that maximally retained the soft tissue envelope. Investigating the force through the extensor mechanism, we found a statistically significant difference between the TKA before and after patelloplasty, which was abolished by the insertion of the augmentation patella. Investigation patella tracking, we found a statistically significant difference between the TKA before and after patelloplasty, that was rectified by the insertion of the augmentation patella. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the kinetic and kinematic function of a new trabecular metal augmentation patella. Investigating the force through the extensor mechanism, we found a statistically significant difference between the TKA before and after patelloplasty, which was abolished by the insertion of the augmentation patella. Investigation patella tracking, we found a statistically significant difference between the TKA before and after patelloplasty, that was rectified by the insertion of the augmentation patella. This study demonstrates that the augmentation patella restorers the abnormal tracking and higher extensor mechanism forces seen after patelloplasty in revision TKA to those normal after a TKA. The mean, maximum extensor mechanism force in extension for the TKA group as compared to the patelloplasty group (p=0.0000032), reduced to near normal with the augmentation patella (p=0.198). The mean, maximum patella maltracking in extension for the TKA group as compared to the patelloplasty group (p=0.025), reduced to near normal with the augmentation patella (p=0.301). Eight frozen human cadaveric knees (mean age sixty-eight years) were prepared for an “Oxford type” knee rig. Alignment ands offset were addressed and the soft tissue envelope kept as intact as possible. A load cell was introduced into the extensor mechanism. Femoral, patella and tibial motion were assessed using the Optotrak system. Patella bone loss at revision TKA remains an unsolved problem, with the patella often too thin to accept a new prosthesis. Leaving the patella shell to articulate against the femoral component can lead to disappointing results.
The mean, maximum patella maltracking in extension for the TKA group as compared to the patelloplasty group (p=0.025), reduced to near normal with the augmentation patella (p=0.301).
Investigation patella tracking, we found a statistically significant difference between the TKA before and after patelloplasty, that was rectified by the insertion of the augmentation patella.