Articulation and Axial Rotations of Normal and CR TKA Knees During Flexion

Description

This presentation from ISTA 2024 held in Nashville discusses the kinematics of knee rotation, particularly focusing on axial rotation during knee flexion in normal and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) conditions. It begins by highlighting findings from in vitro studies examining cadaver knees, revealing about 20 degrees of axial rotation during flexion. In contrast, TKA demonstrates minimal axial rotation, typically less than 5 degrees. The study aims to explore the articulation patterns between the femoral condyles and the tibial surface and their impact on axial rotation.



The research involves 22 normal knees and 11 with osteoarthritis, measuring kinematic data during weight-bearing flexion using dual fluoroscopy technology. Results indicate significant differences in articulation distances on the medial and lateral sides of the femoral condyles, with normal knees exhibiting greater axial rotation due to these articulations than TKA knees. The findings suggest that the traditional understanding of knee kinematics—based on posterior femoral condyle rollback and medial pivoting—may need reconsideration. The presentation concludes with recommendations for future knee design and surgical techniques to better replicate normal knee articulations.

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Conferences