The Application of Roentgenstereophotogrammetry for Evaluation of Knee-Joint Kinematics in Vitro

Abstract

Accurate quantitative knowledge about the motion freedom in human knee-joints, and how it is influenced by joint restraints (articular surfaces, ligaments and capsular structures) is necessary to develop criteria for diagnosis and treatment of joint diseases and traumatic conditions, for artificial joint designs, and to provide a data base for modelling in patient evaluation techniques (i.e. gait analysis). A two-dimensional (e.g. 1,2) or quasi-three-dimensional (e.g. 3) approach to knee kinematics may be adequate in first-order approximations. However, it was the objective of this experimental study to obtain accurate data on all aspects of 3-D knee motion in vitro. The methods used are based on Roentgenstereophotogrammetry. The experimental technique and the results to be obtained are illustrated here, using a single knee specimen, although more than one have been investigated.