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Accuracy and reliability of tridimensional electromagnetic sensor system for elbow ROM measurement
Kohei Yamaura1, Yutaka Mifune2, Atsuyuki Inui1
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-2, Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0017, Japan.
Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research
|January 30, 2022
Summary
This study validates a 3D electromagnetic sensor system (EMS) for measuring elbow range of motion (ROM). The EMS system demonstrated high accuracy and reproducibility, offering a reliable tool for clinical elbow assessments.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Medical Instrumentation
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Accurate measurement of elbow joint range of motion (ROM) is crucial for clinical assessment and rehabilitation.
- Traditional goniometer measurements suffer from low accuracy and reproducibility due to soft tissue interference.
Purpose of the Study:
- To validate the accuracy and reproducibility of a three-dimensional electromagnetic sensor system (EMS) for elbow joint motion analysis.
- To compare EMS measurements with radiographic assessments in healthy volunteers.
Main Methods:
- Evaluated EMS accuracy and reproducibility using a bone model at various angles (0°, 45°, 90°, 135°).
- Assessed maximum elbow extension and flexion in six healthy volunteers using both EMS and radiography.
- Employed statistical analysis including Pearson's correlation and Bland-Altman method for accuracy, and intraclass correlation coefficients for reliability.
Main Results:
- EMS measurements on a bone model showed high agreement with target angles.
- In vivo evaluations demonstrated statistically significant correlations between EMS and radiographic measurements for both extension and flexion.
- Bland-Altman plots indicated near-complete agreement between EMS and radiographic methods.
Conclusions:
- The three-dimensional electromagnetic sensor system (EMS) provides accurate, reliable, and reproducible measurements of elbow joint ROM.
- EMS technology holds significant potential for precise elbow joint evaluation in clinical settings.
