Validation of the Posture Analyzing and Virtual Reconstruction (PAViR) System for Measuring the Hip-Knee-Ankle Angle...

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Medical Imaging
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Accurate lower limb alignment assessment is crucial for diagnosing musculoskeletal disorders.
• Non-invasive methods are needed for efficient and reliable clinical evaluation.
• The Hip-Knee-Ankle (HKA) angle is a key parameter in lower limb biomechanics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To validate the Posture Analyzing and Virtual Reconstruction (PAViR) system for measuring the Hip-Knee-Ankle (HKA) angle.
• To compare the PAViR system's accuracy against a validated 2D photogrammetry software (Kinovea).
• To assess the technical validity of PAViR for static coronal plane alignment.

Main Methods:

• Sixty-one asymptomatic adults were evaluated using the PAViR system.
• PAViR measurements were compared with those obtained using Kinovea software.
• Statistical analysis included Shapiro-Wilk test, Pearson correlation, and Bland-Altman plots.

Main Results:

• The PAViR system demonstrated a perfect correlation (r = 0.999) with Kinovea for HKA angle measurement.
• Bland-Altman analysis showed minimal differences (0.03°-0.04°) and narrow limits of agreement (-0.25° to +0.75°).
• These results indicate excellent agreement and technical validity for static alignment assessment.

Conclusions:

• The PAViR system is technically valid for measuring the HKA angle in asymptomatic adults under controlled conditions.
• Further validation is required in clinical populations and dynamic settings.
• PAViR has potential to enhance lower limb assessment in orthopedic, sports, and preventive care.