Innovations in knee arthroplasty: three-dimensional modeling and analytical technology (SOMA)

The development of three-dimensional (3D) knee models and analytical tools from large databases of computerized tomographic data linked to patient demographics has led to the development of a fuller understanding of the amount of variation in the anatomy and morphology of the human knee and how this relates to clinical applications. In this study, we have aimed to review the spectrum of clinical applications of three-dimensional modeling, which includes osteotomies and knee arthroplasties. More specifically, three-dimensional modeling has been used for: the assessment of tibial and femoral morphometry, the potential development of novel instrumentation for femoral resection, the evaluation of femoral condylar anthropometry, correlating mechanical and anatomical alignment, the assessment of the relationship of joint line and flexion, the extension and mechanical axis of the knee, and the evaluation of the relationship between medial tibial tubercle to the posterior aspect of the tibia. Three-dimensional modeling and analytical technology may provide insights into anthropometric variations in the knee and may assist in the future development of more patient specific instrumentation, implant positioning, and implant designs. It is hoped that such advances could improve patient satisfaction and long-term implant survivorship.