A simple method to rapidly assess the tibial tuberosity-trochlear groove distance using computed tomography

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Medical imaging analysis
• Biomechanical assessment

Background:

• The tibial tuberosity-trochlear groove (TTTG) distance is crucial for evaluating patellofemoral instability (PFI) and predicting related disorders.
• Current gold standards for TTTG measurement involve CT or MRI, often with cumbersome software.
• Existing imaging software lacks user-friendly TTTG assessment capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a straightforward and accessible method for measuring the TTTG distance.
• To enable TTTG measurement using basic stationery and any image analysis software.
• To provide a practical tool for assessing PFI in clinical settings.

Main Methods:

• A novel measurement technique was developed using common stationery items.
• Anatomical landmarks were identified and marked on images.
• The TTTG distance was measured based on defined parallel lines perpendicular to the Dorsal Condylar Line.
• Measurements were validated against standard image analysis software (Fiji).

Main Results:

• The TTTG measurements obtained with the new method showed agreement with those from Fiji software.
• The study confirmed the reliability of the proposed stationery-based measurement technique.
• Validation demonstrated the accuracy of the simple method.

Conclusions:

• The TTTG distance can be efficiently measured using affordable stationery and standard image software.
• This method eliminates the need for specialized or costly analysis tools.
• The technique facilitates rapid PFI assessment in outpatient clinics, supporting orthopedic surgeons' decision-making.