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Published on: July 17, 2020
The influence of iliotibial tract on patellar tracking
Chi-Chuan Wu1, Chun-Hsiung Shih
1Department of Orthopedics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung Institute of Technology, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
Abstract:
Thirty patients with 49 snapping hips and patellar malalignment underwent surgical release of the iliotibial tract contracture over the trochanteric area. Minimal follow-up was 2 years (average 4.6 years, range: 2-9 years). Eight patients underwent computed tomography (CT) preoperatively and 1 month postoperatively to investigate the patellar location in the patellofemoral articulation with knee bending at 0 degrees, 20 degrees, 45 degrees, 60 degrees, and 90 degrees. Significant improvements in the congruence angle and lateral patellofemoral angle were noted on Merchant radiograph for all knees (P<.01). On CT, at 20 degrees and 45 degrees knee bending, all congruence, lateral patellofemoral, and patellar tilt angles significantly improved postoperatively in 8 knees (P<.01). Iliotibial tract affects patellar tracking and dominates lateral patellar supporting structures.
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