Introduction. Numerous fluoroscopic studies have been conducted to investigate kinematic variabilities of total knee arthroplasty (TKA). In those studies, subjects having a posterior stabilized (PS) TKA experience greater weightbearing knee flexion and posterior femoral rollback of the lateral condyle. In those same studies, subjects did experience a high incidence of variable medial condyle motion and reverse axial rotation, especially occurring when the cam engaged the post. More recently, a PS TKA was designed to accommodate both gender and ethnicity. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess in vivo kinematics for subjects having this TKA type to determine if subjects having this PS TKA experienced more optimal knee kinematics. Methods. Twenty-five subjects in this study were asked to perform a deep knee bend to maximum knee flexion and a step-up maneuver while under fluoroscopic surveillance. All subjects were patients of one experienced surgeon and received the same PS TKA. Using a 3D-2D registration technique, the CAD models, supplied by the sponsoring company, were superimposed over x-ray images at specified increments throughout the fluoroscopic footage. The kinematics were then analyzed to evaluate lateral anterior/posterior (LAP) and medial anterior/posterior (MAP) condyle translation as well as axial rotation of the femur with respect to the tibia. Results. During the DKB activity, the average flexion for the PS TKA subjects was 1108°. On average subjects experienced a lateral condyle motion in the posterior direction of 7.3mm, with the maximum amount of posterior rollback being 12.8 mm. These same subjects experienced an average medial condyle motion in the posterior direction of 4.8 mm with the maximum amount of posterior motion being 7.8 mm. Therefore, with the lateral condyle rolling more posterior than the medial condyle, these subjects experienced an average amount of 7.1° of axial rotation, with a maximum of 12.0°. Only one subject in this study experienced a reverse axial rotation from full extension to maximum knee flexion. During the step-up maneuver, subjects consistently experienced a roll forward motion of both their condyles. Discussion. Subjects in this study experienced a high incidence and magnitude of lateral condyle posterior femoral rollback, leading a normal-like axial rotation pattern, although less in magnitude compared to the normal knee. There was variability occurring with the medial condyle as some experience experienced an anterior slide while others rolled in the posterior direction. As seen in previous studies, during mid flexion both condyles experienced a more variable motion pattern. Twenty-five subjects having a posterior cruciate retaining TKA are being added to this study to determine if retention of the PCL in a similarly designed TKA leads to more normal-like kinematic patterns

Background. The anatomy of the human knee is very different than the tibiofemoral surface geometry of most modern total knee replacements (TKRs). Many TKRs are designed with simplified articulating surfaces that are mediolaterally symmetrical, resulting in non-natural patterns of motion of the knee joint [1]. Recent orthopaedic trends portray a shift away from basic tibiofemoral geometry towards designs which better replicate natural knee kinematics by adding constraint to the medial condyle and decreasing constraint on the lateral condyle [2]. A recent design concept has paired this theory with the concept of guided kinematic motion throughout the flexion range [3]. The purpose of this study was to validate the kinematic pattern of motion of the surface-guided knee concept through in vitro, mechanical testing. Methods. Prototypes of the surface-guided knee implant were manufactured using cobalt chromium alloy (femoral component) and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (tibial component). The prototypes were installed in a force-controlled knee wear simulator (AMTI, Watertown, MA) to assess kinematic behavior of the tibiofemoral articulation (Figure 1). Axial joint load and knee flexion experienced during lunging and squatting exercises were extracted from literature and used as the primary inputs for the test. Anteroposterior and internal-external rotation of the implant components were left unconstrained so as to be passively driven by the tibiofemoral surface geometry. One hundred cycles of each exercise were performed on the simulator at 0.33 Hz using diluted bovine calf serum as the articular surface lubricant. Component motion and reaction force outputs were collected from the knee simulator and compared against the kinematic targets of the design in order to validate the surface-guided knee concept. Results. Under deep flexion conditions of up to 140° of squatting the surface-guided knee implants were found to undergo a maximum of 22.2° of tibial internal rotation and 20.4 mm of posterior rollback on the lateral condyle. Pivoting of the knee joint was centered about the highly congruent medial condyle which experienced only 1.6 mm of posterior rollback. Experimental results were within 2° (internal-external rotation) and 1 mm (anteroposterior translation) agreement with the design target throughout the applied exercises (Figure 2). Conclusion. The results of this test confirm that by combining a constrained medial condyle with guiding geometry on the lateral condyle, deep knee flexion activities of up to 140° can be performed while maintaining near-natural kinematics of the knee joint. The authors believe that the tested surface-guided implant concept is a significant step toward the development of novel TKR which allows a greater range of motion and could improve the quality of life for active patients undergoing knee replacement. For any figures or tables, please contact the authors directly

The posterior compartments of the knee are currently accessed arthroscopically through anterior, posteromedial or posterolateral portals. A direct posterior portal to access the posterior compartments has been overlooked due to a perceived high-risk of injury to the popliteal neurovascular structures. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the safety and accessibility of a direct posterior portal into the knee. This cross-sectional study comprised a sample of 95 formalin-embalmed cadaveric knees and 9 fresh-frozen knees. Cannulas were inserted into the knees, 16mm from the vertical plane between the medial epicondyle of the femur and medial condyle of the tibia and 8 and 14mm (females and males respectively) from the vertical plane connecting the lateral femoral epicondyle and lateral tibial condyle. Landmarks were identified in full extension and cannula insertion was completed with the formalin-embalmed knees in full extension and the fresh-frozen in 90-degree flexion. Posterior aspects of the knees were dissected from superficial to deep, to assess potential damage caused by cannula insertion. Incidence of neurovascular damage was 9.6% (n=10); 0.96% medial cannula and 8.7% lateral cannula. The medial cannula damaged one small saphenous vein (SSV) in a male specimen. The lateral cannula damaged one SSV, 7 common fibular nerves (CFN) and both CFN and lateral cutaneous sural nerve in one specimen. All incidences of damage occurred in formalin-embalmed knees. The posterior horns of the menisci were accessible in all specimens. A medial-lying direct posterior portal into the knee is safe in 99% of occurrences. The lateral-lying direct posterior portal is of high risk to the CFN

Introduction. A common goal of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is to restore normal knee kinematics. While substantial data is available on TKA kinematics, information regarding non-implanted knee kinematics is less well studied especially in larger patient populations. The objectives of this study were to determine normal femorotibial kinematics in a large number of non-implanted knees and to investigate parameters that yield higher knee flexion with weight-bearing activities. Methods. Femorotibial kinematics of 104 non-implanted healthy subjects performing a deep knee bend (DKB) activity were analyzed using 3D to 2D fluoroscopy. The average age and BMI were 38.1±18.2 years and 25.2±4.6, respectively. Pearson correlation analysis was used to determine statistical correlations. Results. On average, subjects experienced 21.5±7.2 mm, 13.8±8.9 mm, and 27.1°±12.1° of lateral rollback, medial rollback, and external femorotibial axial rotation, respectively (Figure 1). Most rollback occurred in early flexion, with 10.2±6.4 mm and 5.3±6.3 mm of rollback for the lateral and medial condyles, respectively. While the lateral condyle consistently moved posteriorly, the medial condyle experienced 1.8±4.8 mm of anterior sliding between 90° to 120° of flexion. There was a positive correlation between higher weight-bearing flexion and lateral condylar rollback (r=0.5480, p<.0001) (Figure 2), medial condylar rollback (r=0.3188, p=0.001) (Figure 3), and external axial rotation (r=0.5505, p<.0001) (Figure 4). There was an inverse correlation between advancing age and knee flexion (r=-0.7358, p<.0001) as well as higher BMI and flexion (r=-0.3332, p=0.0007), indicating that multiple factors contribute to postoperative range-of-motion. Conclusion. This represents one of the largest studies on normal knee femorotibial kinematics in non-implanted healthy subjects. These results indicate that increased condylar rollback and external axial rotation correlate with increased weight-bearing knee flexion, while increased age and BMI yield decreased flexion. Therefore, in order to achieve higher weight-bearing flexion following TKA, normal-like kinematics such as high rollback and external axial rotation should be incorporated into TKA design. For any figures or tables, please contact the authors directly

Distal femur fractures (DFF) are common, especially in the elderly and high energy trauma patients. Lateral locked osteosynthesis constructs have been widely used, however non-union and implant failures are not uncommon. Recent literature advocates for the liberal use of supplemental medial plating to augment lateral locked constructs. However, there is a lack of proprietary medial plate options, with some authors supporting the use of repurposing expensive anatomic pre-contoured plates. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of a readily available cost-effective medial implant option. A retrospective analysis from January 2014 to June 2022 was performed on DFF (primary or revision) managed with supplemental medial plating with a Large Fragment Locking Compression Plate (LCP) T-Plate (~$240 AUD) via a medial sub-vastus approach. The T-plate was contoured and placed superior to the medial condyle. A combination of 4.5mm cortical, 5mm locking and/or 6.5mm cancellous screws were used, with oblique screw trajectories towards the distal lateral cortex of the lateral condyle. All extra-articular fractures and revision fixation cases were allowed to weight bear immediately. The primary outcome was union rate. This technique was utilised on sixteen patients; 3 acute, 13 revisions; mean age 52 years (range 16-85), 81% male, 5 open fractures. The union rate was 100%, with a median time to union of 29 weeks (IQR 18-46). The mean follow-up was 15 months. There were two complications: a deep infection requiring two debridements and a prominent screw requiring removal. The mean range of motion was 1–108. o. . Supplemental medial plating of DFF with a Large Fragment LCP T-Plate is a feasible, safe, and economical option for both acute fixation and revisions. Further validation on a larger scale is warranted, along with considerations to developing a specific implant in line with these principles

Background. Previous in vivo fluoroscopic studies have documented that subjects having a PS TKA experience a more posterior condylar contact position at full extension, a high incidence of reverse axial rotation and mid flexion instability. More recently, a PS TKA was designed with a Gradually Reducing Radius (Gradius) curved condylar geometry to offer patients greater mid flexion stability while reducing the incidence of reverse axial rotation and maintaining posterior condylar rollback. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the in vivo kinematics for subjects implanted with a Gradius curved condylar geometry to determine if these subjects experience an advantage over previously designed TKA. Methods. In vivo kinematics for 30 clinically successful patients all having a Gradius designed PS fixed bearing TKA with a symmetric tibia were assessed using mobile fluoroscopy. All of the subjects were scored to be clinically successful. In vivo kinematics were determined using a 3D-2D registration during three weight-bearing activities: deep-knee-bend (DKB), gait, and ramp down (RD). Flexion measurements were recorded using a digital goniometer while ground reaction forces were collected using a force plate as well. The subjects then assessed for range of motion, condyle translation and axial rotation and ground reaction forces. Results. During a DKB, subjects implanted a Gradius designed, PS fixed bearing TKA design exhibited an average of 3.35 mm of posterior femoral rollback of the lateral condyle and 2.73 mm of the medial condyle with an average axial rotation of 4.90° in the first 90° of flexion. The average max flexion was 111.4°. From full extension to maximum flexion, the average axial rotation was 4.73°, while the subjects experienced 5.34 and 1.97 mm on the lateral and medial condyle rollback, respectively. During mid flexion from 30 to 60 degrees of flexion, the subjects experienced 1.34° of axial rotation, −1.13 and −0.11 mm of lateral and medial condyle motion. Conclusions. Subjects in this study did experience good weight-bearing flexion and magnitudes of axial rotation and posterior femoral rollback similar to previous PS TKA designs. During mid flexion, subjects in this study did experience less mid flexion paradoxical sliding than other PS TKA, leading to greater mid flexion stability for the patients

Background. The overall goal of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is to facilitate the restoration of native function following late stage osteoarthritis and for this reason it is important to develop a thorough understanding of the mechanics of a normal healthy knee. While there are several methods for assessing TKA mechanics, these methods have limitations that make them prohibitive to both replicating physiological systems and evaluating non-implanted knees. These limitations can be circumvented through the development of mathematical models that use anatomical and physiological inputs to computationally simulate joint mechanics. This can be done in an inverse or forward manner to solve for either joint forces or motions respectively. The purpose of this study is to evaluate one such forward model and determine the accuracy of the predicted motions using fluoroscopy. Methods. In vivo kinematics were determined during flexion from full extension to 120 degrees for ten normal, healthy, subjects using fluoroscopy and a 3D-to-2D registration method. All ten subjects had previously undergone CT scans allowing for the digital reconstruction of native femur and tibia geometries. These geometries were then input into a ridged body forward model based on Kane's system of dynamics. The resulting kinematics determined through fluoroscopy and the mathematical model were compared for all of the ten subjects. Results. The three kinematic parameters evaluated for this study were the initial positioning and translation of the medial and lateral condylar contact point in addition to the axial position and rotation of the femur with respect to the tibia. The model simulations demonstrated an average of −2.16mm of medial condyle translation, −14.03mm of lateral condyle translation, and 20.09°of axial rotation. Through fluoroscopy, subjects demonstrated an average of −3.63mm of medial condyle translation, −16.02mm of lateral condyle translation, and 15.65°of axial rotation. Comparing these two methods the model predicted on average an additional 1.47mm of medial condyle translation, 1.98mm of lateral condyle translation, and 4.44° less axial rotation compared to the fluoroscopic analysis of the same ten subjects. Conclusion. In comparing the simulation kinematics to the that of the fluoroscopic assessment, the results are comparably similar demonstrating a forward model can be a viable assessment of knee kinematics in the future. By validating mathematical simulation as a feasible means of mechanical assessment, it becomes possible to evaluate mechanics using inputs to reflect extraordinary and theoretical instances such as trauma patients and congenital deformities unable to be assessed by other methods. The nature of the model also allows for a seamless transition to assess TKA mechanics, creating a more efficient means of evaluating both device design and surgical technique

Background. Although early TKA designs were symmetrical, during the past two decades TKA have been designed to include asymmetry, pertaining to either the trochlear groove, femoral condylar shapes or the tibial component. More recently, a new TKA was designed to include symmetry in all areas of the design, in the hopes of reducing design and inventory costs. Objective. The objective of this study was to determine the in vivo kinematics for subjects implanted with this symmetrical TKA during a weight-bearing deep knee bend activity. Methods. In vivo deep knee bend (DKB) kinematics for 21 subjects implanted with symmetrical posterior cruciate sacrificing (PCS) fixed bearing TKA were obtained using fluoroscopy. A 3D-to-2D registration technique was used to determine each subjects anteroposterior translation of lateral (LAP) and medial (MAP) femoral condyles and tibiofemoral axial rotation and their weight-bearing knee flexion. Results. During the DKB, the average maximum weight-bearing flexion was 111.7° ± 13.3°. On average, from full extension to maximum knee flexion, subjects experienced 2.5 mm ± 2.0 mm femoral rollback on lateral condyle −2.5 mm ± 2.2 mm of medial condyle motion in the anterior direction (Figure 1). This medial condyle motion was consistent for the majority of the subjects with the lateral condyle exhibiting rollback from 0° to 60° of flexion and then an average anterior slide of 0.3 mm from 60° to 90° of flexion. On average, the subjects in this study experienced 6.6° ± 3.3° of axial rotation, with most of rotation occurring in early flexion, averaging 4.9° (Figure 2). Discussion. Although subjects in this study were implanted with a symmetrical TKA, they did experience femoral rollback of the lateral condyle and positive axial rotation. Both of these kinematic parameters were normal-like in pattern, compared to the normal knee in early flexion, but in deeper flexion the pattern of motion varied from the normal knee. Also, the magnitude of posterior femoral rollback and axial rotation revealed similarities to previous fluoroscopy studies on subjects implanted with an asymmetrical TKA design. This was only a single surgeon study, so it is unclear if the results are TKA or surgeon influenced. Therefore, it is proposed that more patients be analyzed having this TKA implanted by other surgeons. For any figures or tables, please contact the authors directly

The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of weight-bearing on the measurement of in vivo wear of total knee replacements using model-based RSA at 1 and 2 years following surgery. Model-based RSA radiographs were collected for 106 patients who underwent primary TKR at a single institution. Supine RSA radiographs were obtained post-operatively and at 6-, 12-, and 24-months. Standing (weight-bearing) RSA radiographs were obtained at 12-months (n=45) and 24-months (n=48). All patients received the same knee design with a fixed, conventional PE insert of either a cruciate retaining or posterior stabilized design. Ethics approval for this study was obtained. In order to assess in vivo wear, a highly accurate 3-dimensional virtual model of each in vivo TKA was developed. Coordinate data from RSA radiographs (mbRSA v3.41, RSACore) were applied to digital implant models to reconstruct each patient's replaced knee joint in a virtual environment (Geomagic Studio, 3D Systems). Wear was assessed volumetrically (digital model overlap) on medial and lateral condyles separately, across each follow-up. Annual rate of wear was calculated for each patient as the slope of the linear best fit between wear and time-point. The influence of weight-bearing was assessed as the difference in annual wear rate between standing and supine exams. Age, BMI, and Oxford-12 knee improvement were measured against wear rates to determine correlations. Weight bearing wear measurement was most consistent and prevalent in the medial condyle with 35% negative wear rates for the lateral condyle. For the medial condyle, standing exams revealed higher mean wear rates at 1 and 2 years, supine, 16.3 mm3/yr (SD: 27.8) and 11.2 mm3/yr (SD: 18.5) versus standing, 51.3 mm3/yr (SD: 55.9) and 32.7 mm3/yr (SD: 31.7). The addition of weight-bearing increased the measured volume of wear for 78% of patients at 1 year (Avg: 32.4 mm3/yr) and 71% of patients at 2 years (Avg: 48.9 mm3/yr). There were no significant (95% CI) correlations between patient demographics and wear rates. Volumetric, weight-bearing wear measurement of TKR using model-based RSA determined an average of 33 mm3/yr at 2 years post-surgery for a modern, non-cross-linked polyethylene bearing. This value is comparable to wear rates obtained from retrieved TKRs. Weight-bearing exams produced better wear data with fewer negative wear rates and reduced variance. Limitations of this study include: supine patient imaging performed at post-op, no knee flexion performed, unknown patient activity level, and inability to distinguish wear from plastic creep or deformation under load. Strengths of this study include: large sample size of a single TKR system, linear regression of wear measurements and no requirement for implanted RSA beads with this method. Based on these results, in vivo volumetric wear of total knee replacement polyethylene can be reliably measured using model-based RSA and weight-bearing examinations in the short- to mid–term. Further work is needed to validate the accuracy of the measurements in vivo

Purpose. The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of weight-bearing on the measurement of in vivo wear of total knee replacements using model-based RSA at 1 and 2 years following surgery. Methods. Model-based RSA radiographs were collected for 106 patients who underwent primary TKR at a single institution. Supine RSA radiographs were obtained post-operatively and at 6-, 12-, and 24-months. Standing (weight-bearing) RSA radiographs were obtained at 12-months (n=45) and 24-months (n=48). All patients received the same knee design with a fixed, conventional PE insert of either a cruciate retaining or posterior stabilized design. Ethics approval for this study was obtained. In order to assess in vivo wear, a highly accurate 3-dimensional virtual model of each in vivoTKA was developed. Coordinate data from RSA radiographs (mbRSA v3.41, RSACore) were applied to digital implant models to reconstruct each patient's replaced knee joint in a virtual environment (Geomagic Studio, 3D Systems). Wear was assessed volumetrically (digital model overlap) on medial and lateral condyles separately, across each follow-up. Annual rate of wear was calculated for each patient as the slope of the linear best fit between wear and time-point. The influence of weight-bearing was assessed as the difference in annual wear rate between standing and supine exams. Age, BMI, and Oxford-12 knee improvement were measured against wear rates to determine correlations. Results. Weight bearing wear measurement was most consistent and prevalent in the medial condyle with 0–4% of calculated wear rates being negative compared to 29–39% negative wear rates for the lateral condyle. For the medial condyle, standing exams revealed higher mean wear rates at 1 and 2 years; supine, 16.3 mm. 3. /yr (SD: 27.8) and 11.2 mm. 3. /yr (SD: 18.5) versus standing, 51.3 mm. 3. /yr (SD: 55.9) and 32.7 mm. 3. /yr (SD: 31.7). The addition of weight-bearing increased the measured volume of wear for 78% of patients at 1 year (Avg: 32.4 mm. 3. /yr) and 71% of patients at 2 years (Avg: 48.9 mm. 3. /yr). There were no significant (95% CI) correlations between patient demographics and wear rates. Discussion and Conclusion. This study demonstrated TKA wear to occur at a rate of approximately 10 mm. 3. /year and 39 mm. 3. /year in patients imaged supine versus standing, respectively, averaged over 2 years of clinical follow-up. In an effort to eliminate the effect of PE creep and deformation, wear was also calculated between 12 and 24 months as 9.3 mm. 3. (standing examinations), This value is comparable to wear rates obtained from retrieved TKRs. Weight-bearing exams produced better wear data with fewer negative wear rates and reduced variance. Limitations of this study include: supine patient imaging performed at post-op, no knee flexion performed, and unknown patient activity level. Strengths of this study include: large sample size of a single TKR system, linear regression of wear measurements and no requirement for implanted RSA beads with this method. Based on these results, in vivo volumetric wear of total knee replacement polyethylene can be reliably measured using model-based RSA and weight-bearing examinations in the short- to mid–term. For any figures or tables, please contact authors directly

Femoral component fracture is a rarely reported but devastating complication of total knee arthroplasty. It has occurred most frequently with Whiteside Ortholoc II replacements uncemented knee replacements. Presentation may be with acute pain, progressive pain or returning deformity. It occurs more commonly in the medial condyle of the femoral component. It is rarely seen in cemented replacements. All currently available literature describing fractures of condylar replacements, both cemented and uncemented. Predisposing factors include varus deformity either pre or post operatively. The mechanism of failure is thought to be failure of the infiltration of bone into the replacement. This is often due to polyethylene wear or metallosis causing abnormal tissue reaction with or without osteolysis. We present the case of a fractured Press Fit Condylar (PFC) cemented implant (DePuy, Johnson&Johnson, Raynham, Massachusettes, USA) affecting the medial condyle. To our knowledge this is only the third reported case of fracture in a PFC implant, and the first in a cemented PFC implant. Our patient was a 64 year old male who presented with unresolving knee pain post total knee arthroplasty, caused by fatigue fracture of the medial condyle of the femoral component. This was identified as loosening on plain radiographs and replaced with a revision prosthesis with a good post operative result. Given our aging population and with the increase of joint arthroplasty, this case sheds light on a potentially under recognised and increasingly important cause of knee pain following arthroplasty

Backgrounds. Most of in vivo kinematic studies of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) have reported on varus knee. TKA for the valgus knee deformity is a surgical challenge. The purposes of the current study are to analyze the in vivo kinematic motion and to compare kinematic patterns between weight-bearing (WB) and non-weight-bearing (NWB) knee flexion in posterior-stabilized (PS) fixed-bearing TKA with pre-operative valgus deformity. Methods. A total of sixteen valgus knees in 12 cases that underwent TKA with Scorpio NRG PS knee prosthesis operated by modified gap balancing technique were evaluated. The mean preoperative femorotibial angle (FTA) was 156°±4.2°. During the surgery, distal femur and proximal tibia was cut perpendicular to the mechanical axis of each bone. After excision of the menisci and cruciate ligaments, balancer (Stryker joint dependent kinematics balancer) was inserted into the gap between both bones for evaluation of extension gap. Lateral release was performed in extension. Iliotibial bundle (ITB) was released from Gerdy tubercle then posterolateral capsule was released at the level of the proximal tibial cut surface. If still unbalanced, pie-crust ITB from inside-out was added at 1 cm above joint line until an even lateral and medial gap had been achieved. Flexion gap balance was obtained predominantly by the bone cut of the posterior femoral condyle. Good postoperative stability in extension and flexion was confirmed by stress roentgenogram and axial radiography of the distal femur. We evaluated the in vivo kinematics of the knee using fluoroscopy and femorotibial translation relative to the tibial tray using a 2-dimentional to 3-dimensional registration technique. Results. The average flexion angle was 111.3°±7.5° in weight-bearing and 114.9°±8.4° in non-weight-bearing. The femoral component demonstrated a mean external rotation of 5.9°±5.8° in weight-bearing and 7.4°±5.2° in non-weight-bearing (Fig.1). In weight-bearing, the femoral component showed medial pivot pattern from 0° to midflexion and a bicondylar rollback pattern from midflexion to full flexion (Fig2). Medial condyle moved similarly in non-weight-bearing condition and in weight-bearing condition. Lateral condyle moved posterior in slightly earlier angle during weight-bearing condition than during non-weight-bearing condition (Fig.3). Discussion. Numerous kinematic analyses of a normal knee have demonstrated greater posterior motion of the lateral femoral condyle relative to the medial condyle, leading to a mean external rotation and a bicondylar rollback motion with progressive knee flexion. A kinematic analysis of valgus knee was reported to show a different kinematic pattern from a physiological knee motion. Many valgus knees showed paradoxical anterior translation from extension to mid-flexion and greater posterior translation in the medial condyle than in the lateral condyle. Kitagawa et al. reported that this non-physiologic pattern wasn't completely restored after TKA using medial pivot knee system. In the present study, we showed kinematic patterns of the TKA performed on the valgus knee to be similar to the normal knee for the first time, even though the magnitude of external rotation was small. Conclusions. We conclude that the medial pivot pattern followed by posterior rollback motion can be obtained in TKA with modified gap balancing technique for the preoperative valgus deformity

Orthopaedic surgeons and their patients continue to seek better functional outcomes after total knee replacement, but TKA designs claim characteristic kinematic performance that is rarely assessed in patients. The objectives of this investigation is to determine the in vivo kinematics in knees with Cruciate Retaining TKA using Patient Specific Technology during activities of daily living and to compare the findings with previous studies of kinematics of other CR TKA designs. Four knees were operated by Triathlon CR TKA using Patient Specific Technology and a fluoroscopic measurement technique has been used to provide detailed three-dimensional kinematic assessment of knee arthroplasty function during three motor tasks. 3D fluoroscopic analysis was performed at 4-month follow-up. The range of flexion was 90°(range 5°–95°) during chair-rising, 80°(range 0°–80°) during step up and 100° (range 0°–100°) during leg extension. The corresponding average external rotation of the femur on the tibial base-plate was 7.6° (range +4.3°; +11.9°), 9.5° (+4.0°; 13.5°) and 11.6° (+4.5°; +16.1°). The mean antero-posterior translations between femoral and tibial components during the three motor tasks were +4.7 (−3.7; +1.0), +6.4 (−3.8; +2.6) and +8,4 (−4.9; +3.5) mm on the medial compartment, and −2.5 (−7.1; −9.6), −3.6 (−6.1; −9.7), −2.6 (−7.7; −10.3) mm on the lateral compartment, respectively, with the medial condyle moving progressively anterior with flexion, and the medial condyle moving progressively posterior with flexion. We compared Triathlon CR PSI TKA results from this study with Genesis II CR TKA, with Duracon CR TKA, with Triathlon CR TKA and with the healthy knee kinematics. The results of this study showed no screw home mechanism. The internal rotation of the tibia with knee flexion is close to normal, better than Genesis II, Duracon and Triathlon CR TKA operated with standard surgery. The medial condyle is characterized by the same pattern of the other implants, with a paradoxical anterior translation of 5 mm. The lateral condyle shows a posterior rollback better than Triathlon CR operated with standard surgery. For the first time is demonstrated that the surgical technique can modify the tibio-femoral kinematics

Introduction. In total knee arthroplasty, patients sometimes have pain in the posterolateral part of the knee. One possible cause is the impingement of the popliteus tendon against femoral components. In the literature, the incidence has been reported to be 1–4%. The purpose of this study is to quantify the amount of posterolateral overhang of the femoral component using 3-D templating software. Methods. We investigated 40 knees with varus osteoarthritic knees (Male 6 knees and Female 34 knees), all cases were grade 2 or lower in Kellgren Lawrence classification. Three-dimensional preoperative planning software was used to simulate the replacement of femoral component. The distal femur was simulated to cut 9 mm thickness on the lowest point of the medial condyles with 6 degrees valgus. The femoral mediolateral axis was simulated to be parallel to the surgical epicondylar axis. The size of femoral components was decided by anteroposteriol dimension of distal femur. Mediolateral location of the femoral component was that the lateral edge of the femoral components is just on the lateral cortex of the femur. In coronal plane, amount of M-L overhang of the femoral component was measured in 3 Zones (distal, proximal, center) on the surface of the posterior condyle cut (Figure 1). Results. The mean amounts of M-L overhang averaged of 3 zone were 1.0±13 mm in medial condyle and 3.7±1.5 mm in lateral (P<0.01). The number of cases in which M-L overhang was larger than 3 mm were 5 knees (12.5%) in medial condyle and 25 knees (62.5%) in lateral (P<0.01). In lateral condyles, over 3 mm overhanging cases were 25 knees in proximal zone, 21 knees in center zone and 8 knees in distal zone. There were significant differences in each zones (P<0.01). Discussion and Conclusion. Over 3 mm overhang in the poterolateral part of the fumer was present in 25 knees in 40 knees (62.5%). Furthermore, all cases had over 3 mm overhang in proximal zone. There is the popliteal sulcus in proximal zone of the posterolateral part of the fumer (Figure 2). To our knowledge, this is the first report on the objective data of posterolateral overhang of the femoral component. In view of the case with popliteus tendon impingement, rounded and reduced shape of the posterolateral corner in the femoral component would be beneficial (Figure 3)

Introduction:. Varus alignment of the knee is common in patients undergoing unicondylar knee replacement. To measure the geometry and morphology of these knees is to know whether a single unicondylar knee implant design is suitable for all patients, i.e. for patients with varus deformity and those without. The aim of this study was to identify any significant differences between normal and varus knees that may influence unicondylar implant design for the latter group. Methodology:. 56 patients (31 varus, 25 normal) were evaluated through CT imaging. Images were segmented to create 3D models and aligned to a tri-spherical plane (centres of spheres fitted to the femoral head and the medial and lateral flexion facets). 30 key co-ordinates were recorded per specimen to define the important axes, angles and shapes (e.g. spheres to define flexion and extension facet surfaces) that describe the femoral condylar geometry using in-house software. The points were then projected in sagittal, coronal and transverse planes. Standardised distance and angular measurements were then carried out between the points and the differences between the morphology of normal and varus knee summarised. For the varus knee group, trends were investigated that could be related to the magnitude of varus deformity. Results:. Several significant differences between normal and varus knees were found, but most of these were small differences unlikely to be clinically significant or have an influence on implant design. However, two strong trends were observed. Firstly, the version of the femoral neck was significantly less for patients with varus knees (mean difference 9°; p < 0.05). The second trend was a significant difference in the sagittal morphology of the medial condyle. The kink angle, the angle formed by the intersection of the circles fitted to the flexion and extension facet surfaces, and their centres (Figure 1) was either absent or small in normal knees (mean 1°). An absent kink angle occurs when the circle defining the flexion facet surface lies within or makes a tangent to the circle defining the extension facet. However, for varus knees, the mean kink angle was 9°, with positive correlation with the angle of varus deformity (Figure 2). Discussion:. Varus knees have a significantly larger kink angle than normal knees, influencing the relative positions of the flexion and extension facet spheres that define the medial condylar geometry, contributing to the commonly observed ‘flattening’ of the medial condyle in the sagittal plane. Varus knees are also associated with significantly less anteversion of the femoral neck. It has been shown that reduced femoral neck anteversion causes increased loading of the medial condyle [1], and our results support this finding. The data generated in this study will feed further biomechanical testing to investigate the influence of kink angle and femoral neck version on the kinematics and load distribution in the varus knee

Introduction. A femoral rotational alignment is one of the essential factors, affecting the postoperative knee balance and patellofemoral tracking in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). To obtain an adequate alignment, the femoral component must be implanted parallel to the surgical epicondylar axis (SEA). We have developed “a superimposable Computed Tomography (CT) scan-based template”, in which the SEA is drawn on a distal femoral cross section of the CT image at the assumed bone resection level, to determine the precise SEA. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of the rotational alignment of the femoral component positioned with the superimposed template in TKA. Patients and methods. Twenty-six consecutive TKA patients, including 4 females with bilateral TKAs were enrolled. To prepare a template, all knees received CT scans with a 2.5 mm slice thickness preoperatively. Serial three slices of the CT images, in which the medial epicondyle and/or lateral epicondyle were visible, were selected. Then, these images were merged into a single image onto which the SEA was drawn. Thereafter, another serial two CT images, which were taken at approximately 9 mm proximal from the femoral condyles, were also selected, and the earlier drawn SEA was traced onto each of these pictures. These pictures with the SEA were then printed out onto transparent sheets to be used as potential “templates” (Fig. 1-a). In the TKA, the distal femur was resected with the modified measured resection technique. Then, one template, whichever of the two potential templates, was closer to the actual shape, was selected and its SEA was duplicated onto the distal femoral surface (Fig. 1-b). Following that, the distal femur was resected parallel to this SEA. The rotational alignment of the femoral component was evaluated with CT scan postoperatively. For convention, an external rotation of the femoral component from the SEA was given a positive numerical value, and an internal rotation was given a negative numerical value. Results. The subjects were 4 knees in 4 males and 26 knees in 22 females. A mean age (for 30 knees) at the operation was 76.7 ± 6.1 years (range from 66.4 to 88.3). The posterior condylar angle was −0.27 ± 1.43, and the outlier, more than 3 degrees, was 1 case. Discussion. Conventionally, the SEA is palpated intraoperatively, however, the sulcus of the medial condyle sometimes cannot be identified precisely in osteoarthritic degeneration at the medial condyle. Also, the SEA is determined from the posterior condylar axis (PCA) by calculating the posterior condylar angle, which is between the SEA and the PCA, with the measurements from the preoperative CT scan. However, the residual cartilage thickness is not considered in this method, and thus, the SEA is possible to be inaccurate. The simple technology of our template allowed us to determine the SEA directly on the femoral surface, without any influence from bone degeneration. The femoral components could be implanted accurately, and therefore, the superimposed template was considered to improve TKA outcomes with the accurate SEA

Articulation of the polyethylene (PE) insert between the metal femoral and tibial components in total knee replacements (TKR) results in wear of the insert which can necessitate revision surgery. Continuous PE advancements have improved wear resistance and durability increasing implant longevity. Keeping up with these material advancements, this study utilises model-based radiostereometric analysis (mbRSA) as a tool to measure in vivo short-term linear PE wear to thus predict long-term wear of the insert. Radiographic data was collected from the QEII Health Sciences Centre in Halifax, NS. Data consisted of follow-up RSA examinations at post-operative, six-, 12-, and 24-month time periods for 72 patients who received a TKR. Implanted in all patients were Stryker Triathlon TKRs with a fixed, conventional PE bearing of either a cruciate retaining or posterior stabilised design. Computer-aided design (CAD) implant models were either provided by the manufacturer or obtained from 3D scanned retrieved implants. Tibial and femoral CAD models were used in mbRSA to capture pose data in the form of Cartesian coordinates at all follow-ups for each patient. Coordinate data was manually entered into a 3D modeling software (Geomagic Studio) to position the implant components in virtual space as presented in the RSA examinations. PE wear was measured over successive follow-ups as the linear change in joint space, defined as the shortest distance between the tibial baseplate and femoral component, independently for medial and lateral sides. A linear best-fit was applied to each patient's wear data; the slope of this line determined the annual wear rate per individual patient. Wear rates were averaged to provide a mean rate of in vivo wear for the Triathlon PE bearing. Mean linear wear per annum across all 72 patients was 0.088mm/yr (SD: 0.271 mm/yr) for the medial condyle and 0.032 mm/yr (SD: 0.230 mm/yr) for the lateral condyle. Cumulative linear wear at the 2-year follow-up interval was 0.207mm (SD: 0.565mm) and 0.068mm (SD: 0.484mm) for the medial and lateral condyles, respectively. Linear PE wear measurements using mbRSA and Geomagic Studio resulted in 0.056mm/yr additional wear on the medial condyle than the lateral condyle. Large standard deviations for yearly wear rates and cumulative measurements demonstrate this method does not yet exhibit the accuracy needed to provide short-term in vivo wear measurement. Inter-patient variability from RSA examinations is likely a source of error when dealing with such small units of measure. Further analysis on patient age and body mass index may eliminate some variability in the data to improve accuracy. Despite high standard deviations, the results from this research are in proximity to previously reported linear wear measurements 0.052mm/yr and 0.054mm/yr. Linear wear analysis will continue upon completion of >100 patients, in addition to volumetric PE wear over the entire articulating surface

INTRODUCTION. Most total knees today are CR or PS, with lateral and medial condyles similar in shape. There is excellent durability, but a shortfall in functional outcomes compared with normals, evidenced by abnormal contact points and gait kinematics, and paradoxical sliding. However unicondylar, medial pivot, or bicruciate retaining, are preferred by patients, ascribed to AP stability or retention of anatomic structures (Pritchett; Zuiderbaan). Recently, Guided Motion knees have been shown to more closely reproduce anatomic kinematics (Walker; Willing; Amiri; Lin; Zumbrunn). As a design approach we proposed Design Criteria: reproduce the function of each anatomic stabilizing structure with bearing surfaces on the lateral and medial sides and intercondylar; resected cruciates because this is surgically preferred; avoid a cam-post because of central femur bone removal, soft tissue entrapment, noises, and damage (Pritchett; Nunley). Our hypothesis was that these criteria could produce a Guided Motion design with normal kinematics. METHODS & MATERIALS. Numerous studies on stability and laxity showed the ACL was essential to controlling posterior femoral displacement on the tibia whether the knee was loaded or unloaded. Under load, the anterior upwards slope of the medial tibial plateau prevented anterior displacement (Griffen; Freeman; Pinskerova; Reynolds). The posterior cruciate and the downward lateral tibial slope produced lateral rollback in flexion. The Replica Guided Motion knee had 3 bearings (Fig 1). The lateral side was shallow and sloped posteriorly, with a posterior lip to prevent excess displacement. The medial anterior tibial and femoral slopes were increased as in the anatomic knee. In the intercondylar region, a saddle bearing replaced ACL function by controlling posterior femoral displacement. For testing, a typical PS design was used as comparison. A Knee Test Machine (Fig 2) flexed the knee, and applied axial compression, shear and torque to represent a range of functions. Bone shapes were reproduced by 3D printing and collaterals by elastomeric bands. Motion was recorded with a digital camera, and Geomagic to process data. RESULTS. The kinematics of normal knees was the benchmark (Arno). The results for neutral path of motion, and the AP laxity about the neutral path, are shown (Fig 3). The PS showed symmetric motion, with anterior medial sliding and excessive constraint in low and high flexion. For the Replica, the medial condyle remained almost constant, but the lateral side rolled posteriorly with flexion, less than normal to prevent damage to the posterior lateral tibial plastic. The lateral side had similar anterior laxity to anatomic, but more than anatomic in late flexion. Based on 10 parameter motion scoring, the Replica was closer to normal than the PS, 82% cf 51%. DISCUSSION. Functional outcomes after TKA are less than normal, TKA design being a likely factor. The approach shown here is intended to reproduce more anatomic kinematics of neutral path of motion and laxity. Such a Replica Guided Motion knee, based on an anatomic structure/stability approach, could reproduce close to normal kinematics even without the cruciates or a cam-post. This may result in improved functional outcomes, and a closer feeling of a normal knee. For any figures or tables, please contact authors directly (see Info & Metrics tab above).

Introduction. Many factors can influence post-operative kinematics after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). These factors include intraoperative surgical conditions such as ligament release or quantity of bone resection as well as differences in implant design. Release of the medial collateral ligament (MCL) is commonly performed to allow correction of varus knee. Precise biomechanical knowledge of the individual components of the MCL is critical for proper MCL release during TKA. The purpose of this study was to define the influences of the deep medial collateral ligament (dMCL) and the posterior oblique ligament (POL) on kinematics in TKA. Materials and Methods. This study used six fresh-frozen cadaveric knees with intact cruciate ligaments. All TKA procedures were performed by the same surgeon using CR-TKA with a CT-free navigation system. Each knee was tested at 0°, 20°, 30°, 60°, and 90° of flexion. One sequential sectioning sequence was performed on each knee, beginning with femoral arthroplasty only (S1), and thereafter sequentially; medial half tibial resection with spacer (S2), ACL cut (S3), tibial arthroplasty (S4), release of the dMCL (S5), and finally, release of the POL (S6). The same examiner applied all external loads of 10 N-m valgus and 5 N-m internal and external rotation torques at each flexion angle and for each cut state. The AP locations of medial and lateral condyles were determined as the lowest point on each femoral condyle. All data were analyzed statistically using paired t-test. A significant difference was determined to be present for P < .05. Results. All knees showed that posterior femoral translation of the lateral condyle from 0° to 90° was greater than posterior femoral translation of the medial condyle at any step or any tested angle. Posterior femoral translation of the medial femoral condyle under valgus load significantly increased after S4 compared with that at S1 at 20°, 30° and 90°, and after S5 compared with that at S1 at 20° and 30°. Thereafter, significant increase in posterior translation of the medial condyle was seen, at 30° after S6 compared with S1. Posterior femoral translation of the medial femoral condyle under external rotation torque significantly increased after S4 at 90°, and S6 at 0° compared with that at S1. Posterior femoral translation of the medial femoral condyle under internal rotation torque significantly increased after S2 at 0°, after S4 at 60° and 90°, after S5 at 0°, and after S6 at 60° compared with S1. Conclusion. From this study we concluded that retaining of the medial knee structures preserves the valgus and rotatory stability of the knee after TKA. Accordingly, to devise a surgical approach of retaining the dMCL and POL has a possibility to improve outcomes after primary TKA

Introduction. An equal knee joint height during flexion and extension is of critical importance in optimizing soft-tissue balancing following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, there is a paucity of data regarding the in-vivo knee joint height behavior. This study evaluated in-vivo heights and anterior-posterior (AP) translations of the medial and lateral femoral condyles before and after a cruciate-retaining (CR)-TKA using two flexion axes: surgical transepicondylar axis (sTEA) and geometric center axis (GCA). Methods. Eleven patient with advanced medial knee osteoarthritis (age: 51–73 years) who scheduled for a CR TKA and 9 knees from 8 healthy subjects (age: 23–49 years) were recruited. 3D models of the tibia and femur were created from their MR images. Dual fluoroscopic images of each knee were acquired during a weight-bearing single leg lunge. The OA knee was imaged again one year after surgery using the fluoroscopy during the same weight-bearing single leg lunge. The in vivo positions of the knee along the flexion path were determined using a 2D/3D matching technique. The GCA and sTEA were determined based on existing methods. Besides the anterior-posterior translation, the femoral condyle heights were determined using the distances from the medial and lateral epicondyle centers on the sTEA and GCA to the tibial plateau surface in coronal plane (Fig. 1). The paired t-test was applied to compare the medial and lateral condyle motion within each group (Healthy, OA, and CR-TKA). Two-way ANOVA followed post hoc Newman–Keuls test was adopted to detect significant differences among the groups. p<0.05 was considered significant. Results. The results demonstrated that following TKA, the medial and lateral femoral condyle heights were not equal at mid-flexion (15° to 45°, medial condyle lower then lateral by 2.4mm at least, p<0.01), although the knees were well-balanced at 0° and 90° (Fig. 2). While the femoral condyle heights increased from the pre-operative values (>2mm increase on average, p<0.05), they were similar to the intact knees except that the medial sTEA was lower than the intact medial condyle between 0 and 90°. At deep flexion (>90°), both condyles were significantly higher (>2mm, p <0.01) than the healthy knees. Anterior femoral translation of the TKA knee was more pronounce at mid-flexion (Fig. 3), whereas limited posterior translation was found at deep flexion. Conclusion. Femoral condyle heights and AP translations of the CR TKA knees were significantly different from the healthy knees during the weight bearing flexion activity when measured using both the sTEA and GCA, especially at mid-flexion (15° to 45°) and deep flexion (>90°). These results suggest that a well-balanced knee intra-operatively might not necessarily result in mid-flexion and deep flexion balance during functional weight-bearing motion, implying mid-flexion instability and deep flexion tightness of the knee. The data could be useful for improvement of future prostheses designs and surgical techniques in treatment of patients with end-stage medial knee OA