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Comparing Patellofemoral Kinematics Assessed With a Novel Muscle Actuator System and an Oxford Rig Using Noncadaveric
Alexandre Galley1, Samira Vakili2, Ilya Borukhov3
1Biomechanical Engineering Research Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
Journal of Biomechanical Engineering
|December 12, 2024
Summary
This study validates a novel muscle actuator system (MAS) for total knee replacement (TKR) testing. The MAS allows for more realistic preclinical simulations, potentially improving TKR implant design and reducing revision surgery rates.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Orthopedic Biomechanics
- Medical Device Testing
Background:
- Total knee replacement (TKR) failure and revision surgeries are significant clinical challenges.
- Current preclinical testing methods for TKR implants lack comprehensive simulation capabilities.
- Insufficient preclinical evaluation may contribute to suboptimal implant performance and patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To validate a novel Muscle Actuator System (MAS) for preclinical testing of total knee replacement (TKR) implants.
- To assess the MAS's ability to replicate gravity-dependent, quadriceps-controlled squatting motions.
- To compare the MAS's performance against conventional knee simulators.
Main Methods:
- Development and integration of a novel Muscle Actuator System (MAS) with a force/displacement-controlled joint motion simulator.
- Creation of synthetic knee joint phantoms with revision TKR implants and extensor/flexor analogues.
- Replication of gravity using a constant force vector simulating hip-to-ankle biomechanics.
- Measurement of quadriceps forces and patellofemoral joint kinematics under varying conditions (e.g., patellar tendon length).
- Comparison of MAS data with results from a conventional Oxford rig (Pennsylvania State Knee Simulator - PSKS).
Main Results:
- The validated MAS demonstrated high repeatability and reproducibility in force and kinematic measurements.
- The system successfully replicated gravity-dependent squatting motions.
- While absolute kinematics and muscle forces differed between MAS and PSKS, similar trends were observed with changes in prosthesis design or patellar tendon length.
Conclusions:
- The novel Muscle Actuator System (MAS) provides a promising platform for advanced preclinical testing of total knee replacement (TKR) implants.
- The MAS's ability to simulate realistic squatting motions enhances the preclinical evaluation of TKR devices.
- Further research using the MAS may lead to improved TKR implant design and reduced revision rates.
