Repeatability of Establishing Anatomical Coordinate Systems and the Initial Configuration of the Knee

Abstract

Knee joint kinematics are a useful tool for diagnosing joint injury, assessing the effect of surgical procedures, and prescribing the correct rehabilitation protocols. Joint kinematics are measured using coordinate systems defined by anatomical landmarks. A change in location or orientation of these anatomical coordinate systems has been shown to affect the initial knee configuration and knee kinematics in all six degrees-of-freedom (DOF)[1–4]. Several methods have been utilized by researchers, but no universal methodology for determining the location and orientation of the anatomical coordinate systems has been established. The specific aim of this study was to compare the inter-observer repeatability of two methodologies for establishing anatomical coordinate systems and the initial configuration of the knee. The intra-observer repeatability of both methods was also determined to evaluate the effect of training level on establishing the anatomical coordinate systems.