Measurement of varus–valgus and internal–external rotational knee laxities in vivo—part i: assessment of measurement reliability and bilateral asymmetry
Year: 2007
Type: article
Abstract: We examined the capabilities of the Vermont Knee Laxity Device (VKLD) in measuring varus (VR)-valgus (VL) and internal (INT)-external (EXT) rotational laxities by quantifying measurement consistency and absolute measurement error (N = 10). Based on the expected measurement error, we then examined side-to-side differences (N = 20). For all measures, the knee was flexed 20 degrees , the thigh securely fixed, and counterweights applied to the thigh and shank to create an initial zero shear and compressive load across the tibiofemoral joint. A 10-Nm torque was applied to the knee for VL and VR during non-weight-bearing, and a 5-Nm torque was applied for INT and EXT during non-weight-bearing and weight-bearing conditions. Position sensors measured angular displacements (deg). Except for INT during weight bearing, measurement consistency was good to excellent (range, 0.68-0.96), with absolute measurement errors generally less than 2 degrees for VR-VL and 3-4 degrees for INT-EXT. Although side-to-side differences were observed, they did not exceed absolute measurement errors. The VKLD yields reliable measures of VR-VL and INT-EXT laxities, with sufficient measurement precision to yield clinically relevant differences.
Source: Journal of Orthopaedic Research®
DOI: 10.1002/jor.20397
Language: English
Subfield: Surgery
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W1981189763