Editorial Commentary: Femoral Notch Volume: Too Much Information?

Femoral intercondylar notch size and volume are some of the many morphometric knee measures that have been associated with increased risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. The merits of relatively simple measures such as notch width versus more complex 3-dimensional notch volume have been debated, and there is some evidence suggesting that volumetric measures may have a stronger association with injury risk. The application for this information is, however, unclear. Notch volume appears to be just one of many nonmodifiable risk factors that contribute in a small way to the complex puzzle that is ACL injury risk. Although studying notch morphology may be an interesting academic exercise, it is difficult to see how notch measurements would be useful for injury prevention or to improve care after ACL injury.