The origin of a valgus deformity affects the algorithmic and individualized approach used in total knee arthroplasty in valgus knees. We developed a new physical examination technique, the swing test, to evaluate whether valgus malalignment is present when the knee flexes. We performed the swing test on 44 valgus knees in 44 consecutive patients, and we conducted traditional malalignment analysis on each patient's long-film radiographs and computed tomography images to evaluate origin of valgus deformity. We did a diagnostic test to compare the results of the swing test with those of traditional malalignment analysis.Background:
Methods:
The Q angle is an index of the vector of combined pull of the quadriceps and the patellar tendon. However, the Q angle is traditionally measured with the knee extended and static. The indexation of the Q angle measured using the traditional method therefore is questionable. We asked if the Q angle would change when the knee flexed; if it did change, how it changed; and if it changed with different patterns in females and males.Background
Questions/purposes
