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Magnetic tracking: a novel method of assessing anterior cruciate ligament deficiency
R K Kundra1, J D Moorehead, N Barton-Hanson
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital Aintree, Liverpool, UK.
Introduction:
The Lachman test is commonly performed as part of the routine assessment of patients with suspected anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) deficiency. A major drawback is its reliance on the clinician's subjective judgement of movement. The aim of this study was to quantify Lachman movement using a magnetic tracking device thereby providing a more accurate objective measure of movement.
Patients And Methods:
Ten patients aged 21-51 years were assessed as having unilateral ACL deficiency with conventional clinical tests. These patients were then re-assessed using a Polhemus Fastrak magnetic tracking device.
Results:
The mean anterior tibial displacement was 5.6 mm (SD = 2.5) for the normal knees and 10.2 mm (SD = 4.2) for the ACL-deficient knees. This gave an 82% increase in anterior tibial displacement for the ACL deficient knees. This was shown to be highly significant with P = 0.005.
Conclusions:
The magnetic tracking system offers an objective quantification of displacements during the Lachman test. It is convenient, non-invasive and comfortable for the patient and is, therefore, ideally suited for use as an investigative tool.
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