In vivo patellar tracking and patellofemoral cartilage contacts during dynamic stair ascending

Medial Compartment Knee Osteoarthritis Altered Tibiofemoral Joint Kinematics and Contact Pattern During Daily Weight-Bearing Extension

OBJECTIVE

With the advancement of digital orthopedics, the growing prevalence of medial compartment knee osteoarthritis (MCKOA) and the widespread adoption of knee-preserving surgical techniques have heightened new interest in predicting the onset of MCKOA and promoting surgical outcomes. This study was to clarify the differences in kinematics and contact patterns between the MCKOA knee and its native sides during knee extension.

METHODS

From March 2023 to June 2024, thirty-two patients who suffered from unilateral MCKOA, with their contralateral extremities asymptomatic and intact, were enrolled in this descriptive research. Three-dimensional models were created from computed tomography scans, and all patients performed continuous stair climbing under the surveillance of a dual fluoroscopic imaging system (DFIS) to determine the accurate 6-degrees-of-freedom (6-DOF) of their medial OA knees and the contralateral knees. The volume penetration centers between tibial and femoral cartilage models were defined as contact centers. All measured parameters were tested for significant differences using the Wilcoxon Rank-Sum test.

RESULTS

Compared to native knees, the MCKOA tibia showed increased flexion (mean 3.6°) and varus rotation (mean 1.6°), with more posterior (mean 1.4 mm), lateral (mean 1.2 mm) and proximal translations (mean 0.5 mm) relative to the femur during extension (p < 0.05). The tibiofemoral contact patterns on the medial and lateral tibial plateau of the MCKOA knee both shifted more medially (mean 1.4 mm and 1.3 mm, respectively, p < 0.05) than the native side, which was consistent with the lateral translations observed in 6-DOF.

CONCLUSION

Our findings offer valuable insights into the in vivo kinematics of MCKOA knee, its tibiofemoral joint (TFJ) and contact pattern. In MCKOA knees, the tibia exhibited increased flexion and varus rotation, along with more posterior, lateral, and proximal translation relative to the femur compared to the native side during extension. These changes aligned with the more medial shifts in contact patterns of the tibial plateau on the MCKOA side. These findings provide data support for the digital diagnosis and treatment of MCKOA.

Digging into the Cause of Abnormal Patellar Kinematics After Open-Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy via a Quantitative Study on In Vivo Soft Tissue Functional Changes

The biomechanical mechanism of postoperative patellofemoral joint (PFJ) complications after open-wedge high tibial osteotomy (OWHTO) has not been investigated. This study was to determine the length changes in the patellar tendon (PT), medial patellotibial ligament (MPTL), medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL), and quadriceps moment arm (QMA) during staircase motion before and after OWHTO. Computed tomography (CT) scans of 15 patients' lower extremities were used to reconstruct three-dimensional models, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the knee and hip joints was used to mark the soft tissue footprints. Then, such soft tissue lengths were quantified by a dual fluoroscopic imaging system (DFIS). Additionally, function scores were used to assess patient outcome changes. The results showed that there was a contraction of the PT after OWHTO due to its adhesion to the osteotomy site, causing PT length to be negatively correlated to the open-wedge angle. In addition, the shortening of the MPTL and QMA caused patellar instability and an imbalance in the strength of the lower extremities. Additionally, most knee function scores improved after OWHTO, except the Feller scores. Multiple methods should be considered to optimize surgical procedures, postoperative rehabilitation, and physical therapy.

HKA angle exceeding 5 degrees is strongly associated with lateral patellar translation beyond 2 mm: surgical recommendations for avoiding adverse effects on the patellofemoral joint after OWHTO

PURPOSE

Previous studies reported that anterior knee pain (AKP) occurs with an incidence of 32% after opening-wedge high tibial osteotomy (OWHTO). However, the biomechanical effects of this procedure on patellofemoral joints (PFJs) remain unclear. We aimed to quantify the changes in the kinematics and cartilage conditions of the PFJ during stair climbing before and after OWHTO.

METHODS

We recruited 15 patients who underwent unilateral OWHTO. All patients performed continuous stair climbing under the surveillance of a dual fluoroscopic imaging system to determine accurate 6-degree-of-freedom (6-DOF) PFJs and 3D hip-knee-ankle (HKA) angles before and 6 months after OWHTO. The volume penetration centres between the patellar and femoral cartilage models were defined as contact centres. Eleven of these patients underwent quantitative T2 relaxation MRI to determine whether and how PFJ cartilage degeneration progressed.

RESULTS

After OWHTO, patella valgus (mean - 3.73°, P = 0.02) and internal rotation (mean 3.14°, P = 0.03) increased compared with the preoperative conditions during the stair climbing motion. In addition, the patellae of OWTHO knees were located more laterally after surgery (1.56 ± 2.24 mm, P = 0.02) at knee flexion. Moreover, lateral shifts in the contact patterns of both the medial and lateral patellar facets together with increased T2 values (207.10 ± 21.84 ms, P = 0.04) of the lateral patella cartilage were found after surgery. Finally, the lateral patellar shift increased with decreasing varus 3D-HKA after surgery (R= -0.79, P < 0.001). Therefore, controlling 3D-HKA may be helpful in limiting lateral patellar shift.

CONCLUSION

OWHTO changed the patellofemoral kinematics and contact patterns during stair climbing, especially the lateral patellar shift, which may lead to degeneration of the PFJ cartilage. Avoiding overcorrection of the HKA angle beyond 5 degrees of valgus reduces lateral patellar translation, which may help prevent AKP. Additional clinical studies are necessary to validate these biomechanical findings and clarify their impacts on patient outcomes.

Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction normalizes patellar kinematics but fails to predict cartilage contact area: A prospective 3D MRI study

Introduction

The medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) is the main patellar stabilizer in low knee flexion degrees (0-30°). Isolated MPFL reconstruction (MPFLr) is therefore considered the gold standard of surgical procedures for low flexion patellofemoral instabilities (PFIs). Despite excellent clinical results, little is known about the effect of MPFLr on kinematic parameters (KPs) of the patellofemoral joint in vivo. This study investigates the effect of MPFLr on KP of patellofemoral articulation, using a three-dimensional (3D) in vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) analysis at different flexion and loading positions, and analyzes the correlation of these parameters with the patellofemoral cartilage contact area (CCA).

Methods

In this prospective, matched-pair cohort study of 30 individuals, 15 patients with low flexion PFI and 15 knee-healthy individuals were included. Patients were analyzed pre and post-operatively after MPFLr. MRI images were obtained at 0°, 15° and 30° with and without muscle activation, using a custom-designed pneumatic loading device. Patellar shift, tilt and rotation were determined in 3D bone and cartilage models of each individual, guaranteeing the highest reliability. Subsequently, the KPs were correlated with patellofemoral CCA.

Results

Patients with low flexion PFI had a leg geometry of 0.5 ± 2.6° valgus and a TTTG of 11.4 ± 4.4 mm. Eleven patients had moderate (Type A/B) and 2 had severe (Type C/D) trochlear dysplasia. Without muscle activation, patients showed significantly increased patellar shift (0-30°; p 0° = 0.011, p 15° = 0.004 and p 30° = 0.015) and tilt (15°; p 15° = 0.041). Muscle activation did not compensate for maltracking in these patients, but even increased tilt and shift further in extension (p 0° = 0.002 and p 0° = 0.001). MPFLr statistically reduced patellofemoral tilt from 0° to 30° flexion during passive flexion and tended to approach the values of knee-healthy individuals (p ext = 0.008, p 15° = 0.006 and p 30° = 0.003). Post-operatively, muscle activation led to comparable tilt and shift as in healthy individuals. Tilt, shift and rotation did not correlate with CCA neither in healthy individuals nor in pre- or post-operative patients.

Conclusion

Isolated MPFLr can normalize patellar shift and tilt in patients with low flexion instability. Considering the influence of muscle activation, passive stabilization through MPFLr seems to be the basic precondition for physiologically active patella stabilization. The investigated KPs as easy-to-measure parameters in clinical practice cannot be used to assume normalized CCA for low flexion degrees. Therefore, methodologically demanding methods are still required to calculate the patellofemoral CCA.

Level of Evidence

Level II.

Symmetry in knee arthrokinematics in healthy collegiate athletes during fast running and drop jump revealed through dynamic biplane radiography

OBJECTIVE

Changes in cartilage contact area and/or contact location after knee injury can initiate and exacerbate cartilage degeneration. Typically, the contralateral knee is used as a surrogate for native cartilage contact patterns on the injured knee. However, symmetry in cartilage contact patterns between healthy knees during high-impact activities is unknown.

METHOD

Tibiofemoral kinematics were measured on 19 collegiate athletes during fast running and drop jump using dynamic biplane radiography and a validated registration process that matched computed tomography (CT)-based bone models to the biplane radiographs. Cartilage contact area and location were measured with participant-specific magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based cartilage models superimposed on the CT-based bone models. Symmetry in cartilage contact area and location was assessed by the absolute side-to-side differences (SSD) within participants.

RESULTS

The SSD in contact area during running (7.7 ± 6.1% and 8.0 ± 4.6% in the medial and lateral compartments, respectively) was greater than during drop jump (4.2 ± 3.7% and 5.7 ± 2.6%, respectively) (95% CI of the difference: medial [2.4%, 6.6%], lateral [1.5%, 4.9%]). The average SSD in contact location was 3.5 mm or less in the anterior-posterior (AP) direction and 2.1 mm or less in the medial-lateral (ML) direction on the femur and tibia for both activities. The SSD in AP contact location on the femur was greater during running than during drop jump (95% CI of the difference: medial [1.6 mm, 3.6 mm], lateral [0.6 mm, 1.9 mm]).

CONCLUSION

This study provides context for interpreting results from previous studies on tibiofemoral arthrokinematics. Previously reported differences between ligament-repaired and contralateral knee arthrokinematics fall within the range of typical SSDs observed in healthy athletes. Previously reported arthrokinematics differences that exceed SSDs found in these healthy athletes occur only in the presence of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) deficiency or meniscectomy.

Patella-Posterior Turning Point of the Distal Femur Distance Is a Potential Indicator for Diagnosing Patella Alta in Recurrent Patellar Dislocation Population

PURPOSE

To introduce a simple patellar height measurement method (patella-posterior turning point of the distal femur [P-PTP] Distance) independent of patellar anatomy with standardized patient position, and tested the reliability, validity, and diagnostic accuracy compared with commonly used ratios in knee extension.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 418 computed tomography (CT) images of the knee joint in a group of patients who were diagnosed recurrent patellar dislocation (RPD). With the three-dimensional (3D) CT reconstructed knee, patellar height was qualitatively assessed by the patellar engagement with the femoral trochlea in terminal knee extension to divide RPD population into case (patella alta) and control group. With digitally reconstructed lateral radiographs, patellar height was measured with P-PTP distance (perpendicular distances between the distal edge of patella articular surface and posterior turning point of distal femur), and four commonly used ratios: Caton-Deschamps index, Modified Insall-Salvati index, Blackburne-Peel index, and Insall-Salvati index. An unpaired t-test was conducted to determine significant differences between groups. Correlation coefficient, intra- and inter-observer reliability, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) were also calculated.

RESULTS

198 knee images (198 patients) were included for final evaluation. Patella alta was present in 72 knees (36.3%) with RPD. The effect size was relatively large between the case and control group for P-PTP distance (d = -1.619; 95% CI, -1.948 to -1.286). P-PTP distance correlated moderately to strongly with four commonly used ratios (P < .001). Intraobserver and interobserver reliability was good for P-PTP distance. The AUC of the ROC curve was categorized as excellent for P-PTP distance, better than other measurements (P < .001), and the cutoff value was 4.2 mm with the highest sensitivity (86.11%) and specificity (84.92%).

CONCLUSIONS

The measurement method, P-PTP distance, showed good intra-observer and inter-observer reliability, well correlated with commonly used ratios, and presented best diagnostic accuracy among commonly used ratios for predicting RPD. P-PTP distance might be a potential indicator for identifying patella alta in RPD patients when supine and knee extended.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The measurement reported in this study may help in advancing clinical evaluation of patella alta, providing an alternative and simple method to measure patellar height. Standing or weight-bearing plain lateral radiographs obtained from the routine practice should be further assessed in the next step to further validate the method.

Change in Descriptive Kinematic Parameters of Patients with Patellofemoral Instability When Compared to Individuals with Healthy Knees-A 3D MRI In Vivo Analysis

BACKGROUND

Patellofemoral instability (PFI) leads to chronic knee pain, reduced performance and chondromalacia patellae with consecutive osteoarthritis. Therefore, determining the exact patellofemoral contact mechanism, as well as the factors leading to PFI, is of great importance. The present study compares in vivo patellofemoral kinematic parameters and the contact mechanism of volunteers with healthy knees and patients with low flexion patellofemoral instability (PFI). The study was performed with a high-resolution dynamic MRI.

MATERIAL/METHODS

In a prospective cohort study, the patellar shift, patella rotation and the patellofemoral cartilage contact areas (CCA) of 17 patients with low flexion PFI were analyzed and compared with 17 healthy volunteers, matched via the TEA distance and sex, in unloaded and loaded conditions. MRI scans were carried out for 0°, 15° and 30° knee flexion in a custom-designed knee loading device. To suppress motion artifacts, motion correction was performed using a moiré phase tracking system with a tracking marker attached to the patella. The patellofemoral kinematic parameters and the CCA was calculated on the basis of semi-automated cartilage and bone segmentation and registrations.

RESULTS

Patients with low flexion PFI showed a significant reduction in patellofemoral CCA for 0° (unloaded: p = 0.002, loaded: p = 0.004), 15° (unloaded: p = 0.014, loaded: p = 0.001) and 30° (unloaded: p = 0.008; loaded: p = 0.001) flexion compared to healthy subjects. Additionally, patients with PFI revealed a significantly increased patellar shift when compared to volunteers with healthy knees at 0° (unloaded: p = 0.033; loaded: p = 0.031), 15° (unloaded: p = 0.025; loaded: p = 0.014) and 30° flexion (unloaded: p = 0.030; loaded: p = 0.034) There were no significant differences for patella rotation between patients with PFI and the volunteers, except when, under load at 0° flexion, PFI patients showed increased patellar rotation (p = 0.005. The influence of quadriceps activation on the patellofemoral CCA is reduced in patients with low flexion PFI.

CONCLUSION

Patients with PFI showed different patellofemoral kinematics at low flexion angles in both unloaded and loaded conditions compared to volunteers with healthy knees. Increased patellar shifts and decreased patellofemoral CCAs were observed in low flexion angles. The influence of the quadriceps muscle is diminished in patients with low flexion PFI. Therefore, the goal of patellofemoral stabilizing therapy should be to restore a physiologic contact mechanism and improve patellofemoral congruity for low flexion angles.

Knee Cartilage Defect Assessment by Graph Representation and Surface Convolution

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common osteoarthritis and a leading cause of disability. Cartilage defects are regarded as major manifestations of knee OA, which are visible by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Thus early detection and assessment for knee cartilage defects are important for protecting patients from knee OA. In this way, many attempts have been made on knee cartilage defect assessment by applying convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to knee MRI. However, the physiologic characteristics of the cartilage may hinder such efforts: the cartilage is a thin curved layer, implying that only a small portion of voxels in knee MRI can contribute to the cartilage defect assessment; heterogeneous scanning protocols further challenge the feasibility of the CNNs in clinical practice; the CNN-based knee cartilage evaluation results lack interpretability. To address these challenges, we model the cartilages structure and appearance from knee MRI into a graph representation, which is capable of handling highly diverse clinical data. Then, guided by the cartilage graph representation, we design a non-Euclidean deep learning network with the self-attention mechanism, to extract cartilage features in the local and global, and to derive the final assessment with a visualized result. Our comprehensive experiments show that the proposed method yields superior performance in knee cartilage defect assessment, plus its convenient 3D visualization for interpretability.

Empirical joint contact mechanics: A comprehensive review

Empirical joint contact mechanics measurement (EJCM; e.g. contact area or force, surface velocities) enables critical investigations of the relationship between changing joint mechanics and the impact on surface-to-surface interactions. In orthopedic biomechanics, understanding the changes to cartilage contact mechanics following joint pathology or aging is critical due to its suggested role in the increased risk of osteoarthritis (OA), which might be due to changed kinematics and kinetics that alter the contact patterns within a joint. This article reviews and discusses EJCM approaches that have been applied to articulating joints such that readers across different disciplines will be informed of the various measurement and analysis techniques used in this field. The approaches reviewed include classical measurement approaches (radiographic and sectioning, dye staining, casting, surface proximity, and pressure measurement), stereophotogrammetry/motion analysis, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and high-speed videoradiography. Perspectives on approaches to advance this field of EJCM are provided, including the value of considering relative velocity in joints, tractional stress, quantification of joint contact area shape, consideration of normalization techniques, net response (superposition) of multiple input variables, and establishing linkages to regional cartilage health status. EJCM measures continue to provide insights to advance our understanding of cartilage health and degeneration and provide avenues to assess the efficacy and guide future directions of developing interventions (e.g. surgical, biological, rehabilitative) to optimize joint's health and function long term.

Fully automatic extraction of knee kinematics from dynamic CT imaging; normative tibiofemoral and patellofemoral kinematics of 100 healthy volunteers

BACKGROUND

Accurate assessment of knee kinematics is important in the diagnosis and quantification of knee disorders and to determine the effect of orthopaedic interventions. Despite previous studies showing the usefulness of dynamic imaging and providing valuable insights in knee kinematics, dynamic imaging is not widely used in clinics due to a variety of causes. In this study normative knee kinematics of 100 healthy subjects is established using a fully automatic workflow feasible for use in the clinic.

METHODS

One-hundred volunteers were recruited and a dynamic CT scan was made during a flexion extension movement. Image data was automatically segmented and dynamic and static images were superimposed using image registration. Coordinate systems for the femur, patella and tibia were automatically calculated as well as their dynamic position and orientation.

RESULTS

Dynamic CT scans weremade withan effective radiation dose of 0.08 mSv. The median tibial internal rotation was 4° and valgus rotation is 5° at full flexion. Femoral rollback of the lateral condyle was 7 mm versus 2 mm of the medial condyle. The median patella flexion reached 65% of tibiofemoral flexion and the median tilt and rotation were 5° and 0° at full flexion, respectively. The median mediolateral translation of the patella was 3 mm (medially) in the first 30° of flexion.

CONCLUSION

The current study presents TF and PF kinematic data of 97 healthy individuals, providing a unique dataset of normative knee kinematics. The short scanning time, simple motion and, automatic analysis make the methods presented suitable for daily clinical practice.

Articular contact motion at the knee during daily activities

We combined mobile biplane X-ray imaging and magnetic resonance imaging to measure the regions of articular cartilage contact and cartilage thickness at the tibiofemoral and patellofemoral joints during six functional activities: standing, level walking, downhill walking, stair ascent, stair descent, and open-chain (non-weight-bearing) knee flexion. The contact centers traced similar paths on the medial and lateral femoral condyles, femoral trochlea, and patellar facet in all activities while their locations on the tibial plateau were more varied. The translations of the contact centers on the femur and patella were tightly coupled to the tibiofemoral flexion angle in all activities (r²  > 0.95) whereas those on the tibia were only moderately related to the flexion angle (r²  > 0.62). The regions of contacting cartilage were significantly thicker than the regions of non-contacting cartilage on the patella, femoral trochlea, and the medial and lateral tibial plateaus in all activities (p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in thickness between contacting and non-contacting cartilage on the medial and lateral femoral condyles in all activities, except open-chain knee flexion. Our results provide partial support for the proposition that cartilage thickness is adapted to joint load and do not exclude the possibility that other factors, such as joint congruence, also play a role in regulating the structure and organization of healthy cartilage. The data obtained in this study may serve as a guide when evaluating articular contact motion in osteoarthritic and reconstructed knees.

Patellofemoral Arthroplasty Improves Patellofemoral Alignment in Patients with Patellofemoral Osteoarthritis with Trochlear Dysplasia

The impact of trochlear dysplasia on patellofemoral arthroplasty (PFA) has rarely been reported in the literature. The purpose of this study was to explore the effectiveness of PFA in patients with patellofemoral osteoarthritis (PFOA) associated with trochlear dysplasia. From January 2014 to March 2018, 35 patients with PFOA and trochlear dysplasia (29 females and 6 males), underwent PFA, were included in the present retrospective study. Radiological measurements including the patellar tilt (PT), congruence angle (CA), Blackburne-Peel ratio (BPR), tibial tuberosity-trochlear groove (TT-TG) distance, and lateral trochlear inclination (LTI) were assessed pre- and postoperatively to evaluate the changes in patellofemoral alignment. The patient-reported functional outcome was assessed using the Oxford Knee Score. The mean follow-up time was 24 months (range, 18-42 months). The intraclass correlation coefficients were excellent for all measurements. The patellofemoral alignment and knee function were significantly improved postoperatively. The PT decreased from 23.3 ± 6.3 degrees preoperatively to 6.4 ± 2.3 degrees postoperatively (p < 0.001). The CA decreased from 32.3 ± 8.6 degrees preoperatively to 10.2 ± 3.6 degrees postoperatively (p < 0.001). The lateral trochlear inclination increased from 8.3 ± 4.1 degrees preoperatively to 16.0 ± 1.2 degrees postoperatively (p < 0.001). The TT-TG distance decreased from 18.2 ± 3.8 mm preoperatively to 11.5 ± 3.3 mm postoperatively (p < 0.001). The BPR did not significantly change postoperatively (p = 0.390). The average Oxford Knee Score improved from 19.5 preoperatively to 29.2 at 6 months postoperatively (p < 0.001), 37.9 at 1 year postoperatively (p < 0.001), and 39.1 at final follow-up (p < 0.001). No patient developed patellofemoral malalignment or prosthesis loosening during short-term follow-up. PFA achieved favorable therapeutic results in patients with PFOA associated with trochlear dysplasia.

The Influence of Mathematical Definitions on Patellar Kinematics Representations

A correlation between patellar kinematics and anterior knee pain is widely accepted. However, there is no consensus on how they are connected or what profile of patellar kinematics would minimize anterior knee pain. Nevertheless, answering this question by merging existing studies is further complicated by the variety of ways to describe patellar kinematics. Therefore, this study describes the most frequently used conventions for defining patellar kinematics, focusing on the rotations. The similarities and differences between the Cardan sequences and angles calculated by projecting axes are analyzed. Additionally, a tool is provided to enable the conversion of kinematic data between definitions in different studies. The choice of convention has a considerable impact on the absolute values and the clinical characteristics of the patello-femoral angles. In fact, the angles that result from using different mathematical conventions to describe a given patello-femoral rotation from our analyses differ up to a Root Mean Squared Error of 111.49° for patellar flexion, 55.72° for patellar spin and 35.39° for patellar tilt. To compare clinical kinematic patello-femoral results, every dataset must follow the same convention. Furthermore, researchers should be aware of the used convention’s implications to ensure reproducibility when interpreting and comparing such data.

Management of Chondral Defects Associated with Patella Instability

Cartilage defects of the patellofemoral joint are commonly found in association with patellar instability owing to abnormal biomechanics. Strategies to address chondral defects of the patellofemoral joint secondary to instability should first address causes of recurrent instability. Most patellofemoral chondral defects associated with instability are less than 2 cm2 and do not generally require intervention beyond chondroplasty. Larger defects of the patella and/or the trochlea can be repaired with osteochondral or surface cartilage repair.

Six-Degree-of-Freedom Tibiofemoral and Patellofemoral Joint Motion During Activities of Daily Living

The purpose of this study was to measure the three-dimensional movements of the femur, tibia and patella in healthy young people during activities of daily living. A mobile biplane X-ray imaging system was used to obtain simultaneous measurements of six-degree-of-freedom (6-DOF) tibiofemoral and patellofemoral kinematics and femoral condylar motion in ten participants during standing, level walking, downhill walking, stair ascent, stair descent and open-chain (non-weightbearing) knee flexion. Seven of the eleven secondary motions at the knee-three translations at the tibiofemoral joint, three translations at the patellofemoral joint, and patellar flexion-were coupled to the tibiofemoral flexion angle (r² ≥ 0.71). Tibial internal-external rotation, tibial abduction-adduction, patellar rotation, and patellar tilt were each weakly related to the tibiofemoral flexion angle (r² ≤ 0.45). The displacements of the femoral condyles were also coupled to the tibiofemoral flexion angle (r² ≥ 0.70), with the lateral condyle translating further on the tibial plateau than the medial condyle. The center of rotation of the tibiofemoral joint in the transverse plane was located on the medial side in all activities. These findings expand our understanding of the kinematic function of the healthy knee and may be relevant to a range of applications in biomechanics, including the design of prosthetic knee implants and the development of knee models for use in full-body simulations of movement.

Preoperative flexion contracture is a predisposing factor for cartilage degeneration at the patellofemoral joint after open wedge high tibial osteotomy

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of cartilage degeneration at the patellofemoral joint on clinical outcomes after open wedge high tibial osteotomy and to investigate the predisposing factors for progressive patellofemoral cartilage degeneration.

Methods

Seventy-two knees were evaluated on second-look arthroscopy in patients who opted for plate and screw removal at an average of 20.1 months after osteotomy. Cartilage degeneration at the patellofemoral joint was evaluated using the International Cartilage Repair Society grading system, with cases divided into progression and nonprogression groups. Radiographic parameters of the patellofemoral anatomy, knee range of motion, and clinical outcomes were evaluated from the preoperative baseline to the final follow up, on average 50 months after osteotomy. A contracture > 5° was considered a flexion contracture.

Results

Cartilage degeneration progressed in 31 knees, and preoperative knee flexion contracture was significantly associated with progressive degeneration (P < 0.01). The Lysholm and Kujala scores were significantly lower in the progression group (87.9 and 85.3, respectively) than in the nonprogression group (91.6 and 93.6, respectively) (P < 0.05). The odds ratio of the flexion contracture resulting in progression of patellofemoral cartilage degeneration was 4.63 (95% confidence interval, 1.77–12.1). No association was detected between progressive degeneration and age, sex, body mass index, Kellgren-Lawrence grade, or radiographic parameters.

Conclusions

Flexion contracture may be associated with progression of cartilage degeneration at the patellofemoral joint and may negatively affect the clinical outcomes after open wedge, high tibial osteotomy.

A new method for estimating three-dimensional movement of the patella using a surface mapping method and computed tomography

Introduction

A previous study reported a method called the 2D-3D registration technique to examine three-dimensional movement of the patella. However, that method requires a biplane fluoroscopy system. In the present study, the aim was to establish a new method (CT-based surface mapping method) to estimate three-dimensional positions and angles of the patella with a motion capture system and CT.

Methods

In Study 1, the most appropriate parameters for the CT-based surface mapping method (i.e., target edge length, threshold of thickness of the soft tissue, and minimum distance between markers) were explored and determined. In Study 2, three-dimensional movement (i.e., positions and angles) of the patella using the CT-based surface mapping method and the most appropriate parameters were determined, and they were compared with the true positions and angles obtained by CT.

Results

The results of Study 1 showed that the most appropriate conditions were as follows: (1) target edge length, 3 mm; (2) threshold of thickness of the soft tissue, 0–20 mm; and (3) minimum distance between markers, 10 mm. The results of Study 2 showed that the errors of the positions and angles were less than approximately 10 mm and 10° at most, respectively (both supine and sitting positions).

Conclusion

The CT-based surface mapping method may be useful for a future study to clarify differences in three-dimensional movements of the patella between patients with patellar tendinitis and healthy subjects.

Patellofemoral Mechanics: a Review of Pathomechanics and Research Approaches

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The patellofemoral joint is a complicated articulation of the patella and femur that is prone to pathologies. The purpose of this review is to report on the current methods of investigating patellofemoral mechanics, factors that affect joint function, and future directions in patellofemoral joint research with emerging technologies and techniques.

RECENT FINDINGS

While previous hypotheses have suggested that the patella is only a moment arm extender, recent literature has suggested that the patella influences the control of knee moments and forces acting on the tibia as well as contributes to various aspects of patellar function with minimal neural input. With advancements in simulating a six-degrees-of-freedom patellofemoral joint, we have gained a better understanding of patella motion and have shown that geometry and muscle activations impact patella mechanics. Research into influences on patella mechanics from other joints such as the hip and foot has become more prevalent. In this review, we report current in vivo, in vitro, and in silico approaches to studying the patellofemoral joint. Kinematic and anatomical factors that affect patellofemoral joint function such as patella alta and tilt or bone morphology and ligaments are discussed. Moving forward, we suggest that advanced in vivo dynamic imaging methods coupled to musculoskeletal simulation will provide further understanding of patellofemoral pathomechanics and allow engineers and clinicians to design interventions to mitigate or prevent patellofemoral pathologies.

Mechanical characterization of the ligaments in subject-specific models of the patellofemoral joint using in vivo laxity tests

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to propose a methodology for mechanical characterization of the ligaments in subject-specific models of the patellofemoral joint (PFJ) of living individuals.

METHOD

PFJ laxity tests were performed on a healthy volunteer using a specially designed loading apparatus under biplane fluoroscopy. A three-dimensional (3D) parametric model of the PFJ was developed in the framework of the rigid body spring model using the geometrical data acquired from the subject's computed tomography and magnetic resonance images. The stiffness and pre-strains of the medial and lateral PFJ ligaments were characterized using a two-step optimization procedure which minimized the deviation between the model predictions and the calibration test results. Sensitivity analyses were performed to investigate the effect of mechanical properties of the non-characterized model components on the characterization procedure and its results.

RESULTS

The overall findings indicate that the proposed methodology is applicable and can improve the model predictions effectively. For the subject under study, ligament characterization reduced the root mean square of the deviations between the patellar shift and tilt predicted by the model and obtained experimentally for the validation laxity test (from 6.2 mm to 0.5 mm, and from 8.4° to 1.5°, respectively) and passive knee flexion test (from 1.4 mm to 0.3 mm, and from 2.3° to 1.3°, respectively). The non-characterized mechanical properties were found to have a minimal effect on the characterization procedure and its results.

CONCLUSION

The proposed methodology can help in developing truly patient-specific models of the PFJ, to be used for personalized preplanning of the clinical interventions.

Evaluation of predicted patellofemoral joint kinematics with a moving-axis joint model

The main objectives of this study were to expand the moving-axis joint model concept to the patellofemoral joint and evaluate the patellar motion against experimental patellofemoral kinematics. The experimental data was obtained through 2D-to-3D bone reconstruction of EOS images and segmented MRI data utilizing an iterative closest point optimization technique. Six knee model variations were developed using the AnyBody Modeling System and subject-specific bone geometries. These models consisted of various combinations of tibiofemoral (hinge, moving-axis, and interpolated) and patellofemoral (hinge and moving-axis) joint types. The newly introduced interpolated tibiofemoral joint is calibrated from the five EOS quasi-static lunge positions. The patellofemoral axis of the hinge model was defined by performing surface fits to the patellofemoral contact area; and the moving-axis model was defined based upon the position of the patellofemoral joint at 0° and 90° tibiofemoral-flexion. In between these angles, the patellofemoral axis moved linearly as a function of tibiofemoral-flexion, while outside these angles, the axis remained fixed. When using a moving-axis tibiofemoral joint, a hinge patellofemoral joint offers (-5.12 ± 1.23 mm, 5.81 ± 0.97 mm, 14.98 ± 2.30°, -4.35 ± 1.95°) mean differences (compared to EOS) while a moving-axis patellofemoral model provides (-2.69 ± 1.04 mm, 1.13 ± 0.80 mm, 12.63 ± 2.03°, 1.74 ± 1.46°) in terms of lateral-shift, superior translation, patellofemoral-flexion, and patellar-rotation, respectively. Furthermore, the model predictive capabilities increased as a direct result of adding more calibrated positions to the tibiofemoral model (hinge-1, moving-axis-2, and interpolated-5). Overall, a novel subject-specific moving-axis patellofemoral model has been established; that produces realistic patellar motion and is computationally fast enough for clinical applications.

Research Methods and Progress of Patellofemoral Joint Kinematics: A Review

Patellofemoral pain syndrome has a high morbidity, and its pathology is closely associated with patellofemoral joint kinematics. A series of in vivo and in vitro studies have been conducted to explore patellofemoral kinematics, and the findings are relevant to the diagnosis, classification, and management of patellofemoral diseases and even the whole knee joint. However, no definite conclusion on normal patellofemoral kinematics has been established. In this study, the measurement methodologies of patellofemoral kinematics (including data collection methods, loading conditions, and coordinate system) as well as their advantages and limitations were reviewed. Motion characteristics of the patella were analyzed. During knee flexion, the patellar flexion angle lagged by 30–40% compared to the tibiofemoral joint flexion. The patella tilts, rotates, and shifts medially in the initial stage of knee flexion and subsequently tilts, rotates, and shifts laterally. The finite patellar helical axis fluctuates near the femoral transepicondylar axis or posterior condylar axis. Moreover, factors affecting kinematics, such as morphology of the trochlear groove, soft tissue balance, and tibiofemoral motion, were analyzed. At the initial period of flexion, soft tissues play a vital role in adjusting patellar tracking, and during further flexion, the status of the patella is determined by the morphology of the trochlear groove and patellar facet. Our findings could increase our understanding of patellofemoral kinematics and can help to guide the operation plan for patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome.

Patellofemoral kinematic characteristics in anterior cruciate ligament deficiency and reconstruction

Background

It is very important to dynamically evaluate the functional outcome in the knee after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction under physiological weight bearing. The objective of the current study is that we would like to compare the patellofemoral joint kinematics in three ACL status: ACL intact, ACL deficiency, ACL reconstruction.

Methods

Twenty patients with unilateral ACL deficient knees were recruited as preoperative group. Six months after ACL reconstruction, these ten subjects were included as postoperative subjects. Ten normal subjects with healthy knees as the control group. Each subject was asked to walk up a custom set of stairs and a single-plane fluoroscopic imaging system was used to determine the 6DOF kinematics of the injured knees, ACL reconstructed knees, and intact knees.

Results

ACL deficient knees showed reduced patellar flexion angle and reduced distal patellar translation during knee flexion. ACL reconstructed knees showed abnormal patellofemoral joint kinematics compared to ACL intact and ACL deficient knees, exhibiting increased patellar external rotation, lateral tilt, lateral translation during knee flexion.

Conclusion

These findings imply that some alterations persist after ACL deficiency and ACL reconstruction. These abnormal changes will be the onset of degeneration in patellofemoral joint even if the ACL is reconstructed in a way that restores the clinical anteroposterior stability of the knee. Some biomechanical changes should be made to improve the outcome of intervention especially in surgical treatment like ACL reconstruction.

Impact of five different medial patellofemoral ligament-reconstruction strategies and three different graft pre-tensioning states on the mean patellofemoral contact pressure: a biomechanical study on human cadaver knees

Background

The medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) is the main stabiliser of the patella and thus mostly reconstructed in the surgical treatment of patellofemoral dislocation. The aims of this study were to gain a better understanding of the influence of altered MPFL graft-fixation locations and different graft pre-tensions on patellofemoral contact pressure.

Methods

Six human cadaveric knee joints were placed in a six-degree-of-freedom knee simulator. Mean PFCP (mPFCP) was evaluated in knee flexion of 0, 30 and 90° using a calibrated pressure-measurement system. After data assessment of the native knee joint, five MPFL reconstruction conditions were conducted: Anatomical double bundle; non-anatomical proximal patellar; non-anatomical distal patellar; non-anatomical proximal femoral; non-anatomical ventral femoral. The gracilis graft was fixed at a defined knee flexion of 30° and pre-tensioned to 2, 10 and 20 N.

Results

Kruskal-Wallis testing resulted in no mPFCP differences between the native and anatomical reconstruction states.

Comparing the native and anatomical reconstruction states with the non-anatomical reconstruction states, no difference in the mPFCP both in knee extension (0°) (p>0.366) and in 30° knee flexion (p>0.349) was found. At 90° knee flexion, the following differences were identified: compared to the native knee state, the mPFCP increased after non-anatomical proximal femoral and non-anatomical ventral femoral reconstruction by 257% (p=0.04) and 292% (p=0.016), respectively. Compared to the anatomical reconstruction state, the mPFCP increased after non-anatomical proximal femoral reconstruction by 199% (p=0.042).

Discussion and Conclusions

With respect to all study findings and to restore a physiological PFCP, we recommend using the anatomical footprints for MPFL reconstruction and a moderate graft pretensioning of 2-10 N.

Impact of Simulated Knee Injuries on the Patellofemoral and Tibiofemoral Kinematics Investigated with an Electromagnetic Tracking Approach: A Cadaver Study

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the approach of using an electromagnetic tracking (EMT) system for measuring the effects of stepwise, simulated knee injuries on patellofemoral (PF) and tibiofemoral (TF) kinematics.

Methods

Three cadaver knees were placed in a motion rig. EMT sensors were mounted on the patella, the medial/lateral femoral epicondyles, the tibial condyle, and the tibial tuberosity (TT). After determining the motion of an intact knee, three injuries were simulated and the resulting bony motion was tracked.

Results

Starting with the intact knee fully extended (0° flexion) and bending it to approximately 20°, the patella shifted slightly in the medial direction. Then, while bending the knee to the flexed position (90° flexion), the patella shifted progressively more laterally. After transecting the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), the base of the medial menisci (MM) at the pars intermedia, and the medial collateral ligament (MCL), individual changes were observed. For example, the medial femoral epicondyle displayed a medial lift-off in all knees.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that our EMT approach is an acceptable method to accurately measure PF joint motion. This method could also enable visualization and in-depth analysis of in vivo patellar function in total knee arthroplasty, if it is established for routine clinical use.

In-vivo patellar tracking in individuals with patellofemoral pain and healthy individuals

Understanding of the exact cause of patellofemoral pain has been limited by methodological challenges to evaluate in-vivo joint motion. This study compared six degree-of-freedom patellar motion during a dynamic lunge task between individuals with patellofemoral pain and healthy individuals. Knee joints of eight females with patellofemoral pain and ten healthy females were imaged using a CT scanner in supine lying position, then by a dual-orthogonal fluoroscope while they performed a lunge. To quantify patellar motion, the three-dimensional models of the knee bones, reconstructed from CT scans, were registered on the fluoroscopy images using the Fluomotion registration software. At full knee extension, the patella was in a significantly laterally tilted (PFP: 11.77° ± 7.58° vs. healthy: 0.86° ± 4.90°; p = 0.002) and superiorly shifted (PFP: 17.49 ± 8.44 mm vs. healthy: 9.47 ± 6.16 mm, p = 0. 033) position in the patellofemoral pain group compared with the healthy group. There were also significant differences between the groups for patellar tilt at 45°, 60°, and 75° of knee flexion, and for superior-inferior shift of the patella at 30° flexion (p ≤ 0.031). In the non-weight-bearing knee extended position, the patella was in a significantly laterally tilted position in the patellofemoral pain group (7.44° ± 6.53°) compared with the healthy group (0.71° ± 4.99°). These findings suggest the critical role of passive and active patellar stabilizers as potential causative factors for patellar malalignment/maltracking. Future studies should investigate the associations between patellar kinematics with joint morphology, muscle activity, and tendon function in a same sample for a thorough understanding of the causes of patellofemoral pain. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res.

Analysis of the moment arms and kinematics of ostrich (Struthio camelus) double patellar sesamoids

The patella ("kneecap") is a biomechanically important feature of the tendinous insertion of the knee extensor muscles, able to alter the moment arm lengths between its input and output tendons, and so modify the mechanical advantage of the knee extensor muscle. However, patellar gearing function is little-explored outside of humans, and the patella is often simplified or ignored in biomechanical models. Here, we investigate patellar gearing and kinematics in the ostrich-frequently used as an animal analogue to human bipedal locomotion and unusual in its possession of two patellae at the knee joint. We use x-ray reconstruction of moving morphology (XROMM) techniques to capture the kinematics of the patellae in an adult ostrich cadaver, passively manipulated in flexion-extension. Moment arm ratios between the input and output tendons of each patella are calculated from kinematically determined centers of patellofemoral joint rotation. Both patellae are found to decrease the mechanical advantage of the extensor muscle-tendon complex, decreasing the tendon output force for a given muscle input force, but potentially increasing the relative speed of knee extension. Mechanically and kinematically, the proximal patella behaves similarly to the single patella of most other species, whereas the distal patella has properties of both a fixed retroarticular process and a moving sesamoid. It is still not clear why ostriches possess two patellae, but we suggest that the configuration in ostriches benefits their rapid locomotion and provides tendon protection.

Pediatric patellar dislocation

Acute patellar dislocation affects approximately 1:1000 healthy children 9-15 years of age, and up to 50% are at risk for recurrent dislocations. In adults the condition is associated with long-term complications, such as osteoarthritis and impairment of knee function. However, literature describing the outcome in a pediatric population is sparse. The present review article evaluates the long-term effects on knee function and cartilage quality after traumatic patellar dislocation in childhood, and also to evaluate the reliability of two clinical tests of medio-lateral knee position, in healthy children.

Anatomical study of the inferior patellar pole and patellar tendon

In this study, detailed investigations into the shape of the inferior patellar pole, the site of the patellar tendon attachment, and the length and course of the patellar tendon were performed with the aim of examining the anatomical factors involved in the developmental mechanism of patellar tendinitis. The investigation examined 100 legs from 50 cadavers. The inferior patellar pole was classified into three types: pointed, intermediate, and blunt. The attachment of the patellar tendon to the inferior patellar pole was classified into two types: an anterior and a posterior. The length of the patellar tendon was measured from the tibial tuberosity to the inferior patellar pole. The pointed type was seen in 57% of legs, the intermediate type in 21%, and the blunt type in 22%. Twenty-one legs were the pointed type, as well as the anterior type. The patellar tendon was significantly shorter with the posterior type than with the anterior type. The blunt type also had a significantly shorter patellar tendon than the pointed type. In legs that were both the pointed type and the anterior type, the inferior patellar pole and the proximal posterior surface of the patellar tendon impinged during knee flexion due to the posterior tilt of the patella, suggesting the possibility that this may induce damage. With the posterior type and blunt type, on the other hand, the possibility of strong tensile stress on the tendon fibers of the posterior facet of the inferior patellar pole was suggested.

MRI-based analysis of patellofemoral cartilage contact, thickness, and alignment in extension, and during moderate and deep flexion

BACKGROUND

Several factors are believed to contribute to patellofemoral joint function throughout knee flexion including patellofemoral (PF) kinematics, contact, and bone morphology. However, data evaluating the PF joint in this highly flexed state have been limited. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate patellofemoral contact and alignment in low (0°), moderate (60°), and deep (140°) knee flexion, and then correlate these parameters to each other, as well as to femoral morphology.

METHODS

Sagittal magnetic resonance images were acquired on 14 healthy female adult knees (RSRB approved) using a 1.5 T scanner with the knee in full extension, mid-flexion, and deep flexion. The patellofemoral cartilage contact area, lateral contact displacement (LCD), cartilage thickness, and lateral patellar displacement (LPD) throughout flexion were defined. Intra- and inter-rater repeatability measures were determined. Correlations between patellofemoral contact parameters, alignment, and sulcus morphology were calculated.

RESULTS

Measurement repeatability ICCs ranged from 0.94 to 0.99. Patellofemoral cartilage contact area and thickness, LCD, and LPD were statistically different throughout all levels of flexion (p<0.001). The cartilage contact area was correlated to LPD, cartilage thickness, sulcus angle, and epicondylar width (r=0.47-0.72, p<0.05).

DISCUSSION

This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the patellofemoral joint throughout its range of motion.

CONCLUSIONS

This study agrees with past studies that investigated patellofemoral measures at a single flexion angle, and provides new insights into the relationship between patellofemoral contact and alignment at multiple flexion angles.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The study provides a detailed analysis of the patellofemoral joint in vivo, and demonstrates the feasibility of using standard clinical magnetic resonance imaging scanners to image the knee joint in deep flexion.

Musculoskeletal modelling of an ostrich (Struthio camelus) pelvic limb: influence of limb orientation on muscular capacity during locomotion

We developed a three-dimensional, biomechanical computer model of the 36 major pelvic limb muscle groups in an ostrich (Struthio camelus) to investigate muscle function in this, the largest of extant birds and model organism for many studies of locomotor mechanics, body size, anatomy and evolution. Combined with experimental data, we use this model to test two main hypotheses. We first query whether ostriches use limb orientations (joint angles) that optimize the moment-generating capacities of their muscles during walking or running. Next, we test whether ostriches use limb orientations at mid-stance that keep their extensor muscles near maximal, and flexor muscles near minimal, moment arms. Our two hypotheses relate to the control priorities that a large bipedal animal might evolve under biomechanical constraints to achieve more effective static weight support. We find that ostriches do not use limb orientations to optimize the moment-generating capacities or moment arms of their muscles. We infer that dynamic properties of muscles or tendons might be better candidates for locomotor optimization. Regardless, general principles explaining why species choose particular joint orientations during locomotion are lacking, raising the question of whether such general principles exist or if clades evolve different patterns (e.g., weighting of muscle force-length or force-velocity properties in selecting postures). This leaves theoretical studies of muscle moment arms estimated for extinct animals at an impasse until studies of extant taxa answer these questions. Finally, we compare our model's results against those of two prior studies of ostrich limb muscle moment arms, finding general agreement for many muscles. Some flexor and extensor muscles exhibit self-stabilization patterns (posture-dependent switches between flexor/extensor action) that ostriches may use to coordinate their locomotion. However, some conspicuous areas of disagreement in our results illustrate some cautionary principles. Importantly, tendon-travel empirical measurements of muscle moment arms must be carefully designed to preserve 3D muscle geometry lest their accuracy suffer relative to that of anatomically realistic models. The dearth of accurate experimental measurements of 3D moment arms of muscles in birds leaves uncertainty regarding the relative accuracy of different modelling or experimental datasets such as in ostriches. Our model, however, provides a comprehensive set of 3D estimates of muscle actions in ostriches for the first time, emphasizing that avian limb mechanics are highly three-dimensional and complex, and how no muscles act purely in the sagittal plane. A comparative synthesis of experiments and models such as ours could provide powerful synthesis into how anatomy, mechanics and control interact during locomotion and how these interactions evolve. Such a framework could remove obstacles impeding the analysis of muscle function in extinct taxa.

Modelling and analysis on biomechanical dynamic characteristics of knee flexion movement under squatting

The model of three-dimensional (3D) geometric knee was built, which included femoral-tibial, patellofemoral articulations and the bone and soft tissues. Dynamic finite element (FE) model of knee was developed to simulate both the kinematics and the internal stresses during knee flexion. The biomechanical experimental system of knee was built to simulate knee squatting using cadaver knees. The flexion motion and dynamic contact characteristics of knee were analyzed, and verified by comparing with the data from in vitro experiment. The results showed that the established dynamic FE models of knee are capable of predicting kinematics and the contact stresses during flexion, and could be an efficient tool for the analysis of total knee replacement (TKR) and knee prosthesis design.

Alterations in patellofemoral kinematics following vastus medialis transection in the anterior cruciate ligament deficient rabbit knee

BACKGROUND

Anterior cruciate ligament deficiency and quadriceps muscle weakness are considered to be important risk factors for aberrant patellar tracking and subsequent patellofemoral osteoarthritis. However, data from in vivo experiments looking at dynamic patellar joint kinematics and muscle force are scarce. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of anterior cruciate ligament transection and loss of vastus medialis force on patellar tracking in the rabbit knee in vivo.

METHODS

Eight skeletally mature New Zealand White Rabbits, weighing 6.0kg (0.6kg standard deviation) were used. The experimental trials consisted of active, concentric and eccentric movements of the knee joint. Measurements were performed with the intact, the anterior cruciate ligament deficient, and the vastus medialis transected knee. Patellofemoral kinematics (shift, rotation) were quantified from high speed video.

FINDINGS

Following anterior cruciate ligament transection, patellar tracking occurred more laterally, and caused a significant lateral rotation of the patella. The addition of vastus medialis transection did not alter patellar tracking or rotation significantly for any of the force-matched experimental conditions.

INTERPRETATION

The loss of the anterior cruciate ligament results in lateral patellar shift and rotation while the loss of vastus medialis muscle force does not affect patellar tracking or rotation in the anterior cruciate ligament deficient knee. We suggest that the current results should be considered carefully in future interpretations of knee extensor imbalance. More research is needed to describe the contribution of vastus medialis muscle strength to medial patellofemoral stability and confirm these results in the human knee.

In vivo patellofemoral contact mechanics during active extension using a novel dynamic MRI-based methodology

OBJECTIVES

To establish an in vivo, normative patellofemoral (PF) cartilage contact mechanics database acquired during voluntary muscle control using a novel, dynamic, magnetic resonance (MR) imaging-based, computational methodology and validate the contact mechanics sensitivity to the known sub-millimeter methodological accuracies.

DESIGN

Dynamic cine phase-contrast and multi-plane cine (MPC) images were acquired while female subjects (n = 20, sample of convenience) performed an open kinetic chain (knee flexion-extension) exercise inside a 3-T MR scanner. Static cartilage models were created from high resolution three-dimensional static MR data and accurately placed in their dynamic pose at each time frame based on the cine-PC (CPC) data. Cartilage contact parameters were calculated based on the surface overlap. Statistical analysis was performed using paired t-test and a one-sample repeated measures ANOVA. The sensitivity of the contact parameters to the known errors in the PF kinematics was determined.

RESULTS

Peak mean PF contact area was 228.7 ± 173.6 mm(2) at 40° knee angle. During extension, contact centroid and peak strain locations tracked medially on the femoral and patellar cartilage and were not significantly different from each other. At 25°, 30°, 35°, and 40° of knee extension, contact area was significantly different. Contact area and centroid locations were insensitive to rotational and translational perturbations.

CONCLUSION

This study is a first step towards unfolding the biomechanical pathways to anterior PF pain and osteoarthritis (OA) using dynamic, in vivo, and accurate methodologies. The database provides crucial data for future studies and for validation of, or as an input to, computational models.