Anthropometric measurements of patellar ridge using computed tomography-based three-dimensional computer models.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Biomedical engineering
• Radiology

Background:

• Investigated the anatomic morphology of the patellar ridge using computed tomography-based three-dimensional (3D) computer models.
• Assessed the center of the patellar ridge relative to virtual patellar resections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the anatomic morphology of the patellar ridge using 3D computer models.
• To assess the center of the patellar ridge after virtual resections.
• To provide anthropometric data for guiding surgical management and implant design in total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Main Methods:

• Constructed 3D computer models from CT data of 160 knees (80 patients).
• Measured the angle between the patellar ridge and patellar long axis.
• Assessed the distance between the patellar ridge center and the center of the patellar cut after virtual resections.
• Analyzed gender and side differences using Student's t-test and regression analysis.

Main Results:

• Significant gender differences were observed in patellar cut dimensions.
• The mean angle between the patellar ridge and patellar long axis was 11.24° ± 3.62°, with significant differences between genders.
• After virtual resection, the patellar ridge center was predominantly located superiorly and medially to the patellar cut center.

Conclusions:

• 3D computer models enable preoperative measurement and virtual planning for patellar surgery.
• Anthropometric data on patellar morphology can guide surgical management and patellar implant design in TKA.
• Understanding patellar ridge anatomy is crucial for accurate patellar component placement in TKA.