Objectives. There remains a lack of data on the reliability of methods to
estimate tibial coverage achieved during total knee replacement.
In order to address this gap, the intra- and interobserver reliability
of a three-dimensional (3D) digital templating method was assessed
with one symmetric and one asymmetric prosthesis design. Methods. A total of 120 template procedures were performed according to
specific rotational and over-hang criteria by three observers at
time zero and again two weeks later. Total and sub-region coverage
were calculated and the reliability of the templating and measurement
method was evaluated. Results. Excellent intra- and interobserver reliability was observed for
total coverage, when minimal component overhang (intraclass correlation
coefficient (ICC) = 0.87) or no component overhang (ICC = 0.92)
was permitted, regardless of rotational restrictions. Conclusions. Measurement of tibial coverage can be reliable using the templating
method described even if the rotational axis selected still has
a minor influence