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The evaluation of patellofemoral pain using computerized tomography. A preliminary study
Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research
|March 1, 1986
Summary
Computerized tomography (CT) offers a superior method for evaluating patellofemoral pain by revealing distinct malalignment patterns not visible on standard X-rays, aiding in surgical planning.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic imaging
- Biomedical engineering
- Radiology
Background:
- Conventional axial radiographs have limitations in assessing patellofemoral joint pain, especially during early knee flexion.
- Peripatellar pain assessment is challenging with traditional imaging techniques.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate patellofemoral alignment in patients with persistent pain using computerized tomography (CT).
- To identify distinct patterns of patellar malalignment and their relationship to knee flexion and quadriceps contraction.
Main Methods:
- CT scans were performed on 20 patients with patellofemoral pain and 10 controls.
- Multiple midpatellar images were acquired from 0 to 40 degrees of knee flexion, with and without quadriceps contraction.
Main Results:
- Three distinct malalignment patterns were identified.
- 11 patients showed lateralized patellae in extension, which corrected with flexion.
- Seven patients exhibited progressive patellar tilting during flexion while maintaining trochlear centering.
Conclusions:
- CT imaging reveals anatomical differences and malalignment patterns not evident on standard radiographs.
- CT provides a significant advantage for planning surgical realignment in patients with patellofemoral pain.