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Four-Dimensional CT Analysis Using Sequential 3D-3D Registration
Published on: November 23, 2019
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Is the contralateral tibia a reliable template for reconstruction: a three-dimensional anatomy cadaveric study.
Pascal Schenk1, Lazaros Vlachopoulos2,3, Andreas Hingsammer2
1Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Forchstrasse 340, 8008, Zurich, Switzerland. Pascal.Schenk@balgrist.ch.
Summary
The contralateral tibia is a reliable 3D template for corrective osteotomies, showing small side differences in length and angulation. Torsional differences exist but require careful interpretation for surgical planning.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Biomechanical engineering
- Anatomical imaging
Background:
- Contralateral anatomy is often used as a template for corrective osteotomies.
- Evidence is lacking on intra-individual tibial differences for 3D reconstruction.
Purpose of the Study:
- Evaluate intra-individual side differences in tibia length, torsion, angulation, and translation.
- Assess the reliability of the contralateral tibia as a 3D reconstruction template.
Main Methods:
- Created 3D surface models from CT data of 51 cadaver tibiae.
- Aligned mirrored right tibial segments to the contralateral left tibia.
- Quantified side differences in 6 degrees of freedom using 3D transformation.
Main Results:
- Mean side difference in tibia length: 2.1 mm.
- Mean side difference in torsion: 4.9°.
- Mean side differences in coronal and sagittal planes: 1.1° and 1.0°, respectively.
Conclusions:
- Small side differences in tibia torsion, length, and angulation support contralateral use as a template.
- Torsional differences warrant cautious interpretation in 3D preoperative planning.
- Contralateral tibia is a reliable template for complex corrective osteotomies.
