Accuracy of model-based RSA contour reduction in a typical clinical application

How Do Classic (Static) RSA and Patient Motion Artifacts Affect the Assessment of Migration of a TKA Tibial Component? An In Vitro Study

BACKGROUND

Classic (static) Roentgen stereophotogrammetric analysis (RSA) is the current gold standard to assess, in vivo, the migration of total joint arthroplasty components. To prevent potential patient motion artifacts during the acquisition of paired radiostereometric images, images must be taken by simultaneously firing both X-ray tubes. However, the influence of nonsynchronized RSA paired images or patient motion artifacts on the precision of RSA and the assessment of implant migration is not well understood.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

We assessed (1) the effect of possible patient motion on the precision of RSA and (2) apparent differences in implant migration among axes (in-plane and out-of-plane translations and in-plane and out-of-plane rotations) of possible motion artifacts.

METHODS

Radiographs of two tibial knee arthroplasty components, each fixed in two bone-implant models as a customized phantom, were taken in a uniplanar measurement setup. We evaluated both model-based (implant models from reversed engineering) and marker-based (additional attached implant markers) RSA approaches. Between the simulated reference and follow-up examinations, we used one of the bone-implant models to simulate patient motion and the other to simulate no patient motion in parallel. Two defined protocols were followed for each of the bone-implant models: no-motion and simulated motion protocols. RSA image pairs were analyzed using a model-based RSA software package (MBRSA 4.1, RSA core ). Precision was calculated through repeat examinations, and migration of the two components was assessed for comparison of the components with each other. Measurements were taken along the medial-lateral and posterior-anterior axes for translations and around the cranial-caudal axis for rotations. The maximum total point motion was measured for comparison between the two components.

RESULTS

The effect of simulated patient motion was generally small, except in the cranial-caudal axis, but the induced imprecision associated with motion was larger in model-based RSA than it was in marker-based RSA. The mean ± standard deviation values of precision in model-based RSA were 0.035 ± 0.015 mm, 0.045 ± 0.014 mm, and 0.049 ± 0.036 mm greater than those in marker-based RSA, in accordance with the simulated motion protocol in translations along the medial-lateral axis (0.018 ± 0.004 mm; p = 0.01), along the posterior-anterior axis (0.018 ± 0.007 mm; p = 0.003), and rotations around the cranial-caudal axis (0.017 ± 0.006 mm; p = 0.02). Apparent differences in implant migration were the greatest for the maximum total point motion. The maximum total point motion increased from 0.038 ± 0.007 mm for the no-motion protocol to 1.684 ± 0.038 mm (p < 0.001) for the simulated motion protocol in marker-based RSA, and from 0.101 ± 0.027 mm for the no-motion protocol to 1.973 ± 0.442 mm (p < 0.001) for the simulated motion protocol in model-based RSA, and was the worst-case scenario regarding patient motion artifacts.

CONCLUSION

Patient motion exceeding 1 mm or 1° on nonsynchronized RSA images affects measurement errors regarding the detection of migration of a tibial component. In clinical RSA studies, the effect of patient motion on the assessment of implant migration should be of particular concern, even if clinical RSA systems have acceptable precision. Specially trained radiographers are crucial for correctly acquiring radiographs, especially when simultaneous radiography exposures are not electronically automated. In general, RSA requires synchronized image acquisition, and this should be the state-of-the-art.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

In clinical RSA studies, precision assessed by repeat examinations may not be reliable using the current standards that are widely used in radiology departments. When assessing implant migration for reliability, comparison of the maximum total point motion between the tested (simulated motion) implant and baseline (no-motion) implant, as in this study, is advocated because of the accurate detection of patient motion artifacts.

Accuracy of radiostereometric analysis using a motorized Roentgen system in a pilot study for clinical simulation

Radiostereometric analysis (RSA) is routinely implemented with two paired Roentgen tubes for three-dimensional (3D) implant migration measurements. A conventional set-up of one stationary tube and one mobile could be time-consuming. Utilizing two customized ceiling-mounted tubes is normally associated with investment costs. Thus, a pilot set-up of a motorized system (single Roentgen source) for radiostereometric image acquisition may be a time-saving and space-efficient alternative. RSA using the motorized system is feasible in this study as a non-synchronized image acquisition technique, however, patient motion may occur and influence the assessment of implant migration. The phantom study aimed to assess accuracy of RSA using the motorized Roentgen system in this in vitro study. Accuracy values of translations and rotations were ±0.29 mm and ±0.48° for the single Roentgen source RSA set-up and ±0.26 mm and ±0.48° for the conventional RSA set-up. This study was also performed to simulate potential patient motion during exposure intervals between paired image acquisition. RSA using the motorized system is able to implement RSA with acceptable accuracy. In general, RSA with synchronized image acquisition is the gold standard to access in vivo implant migration with the highest accuracy. Patient motion exists in non-synchronized image acquisition techniques and results in RSA-related motion artifacts. Then we introduced what RSA-related motion artifacts are. The uniplanar calibration cage applied in the study has a few fiducial and control markers, and some of the markers were occluded in radiographs. Whereas, the number of markers in the calibration cage is correlated with accuracy of 3D implant reconstruction.

[Early assessment of the risk of later implantloosening using Roentgen Sterophotogrammetric Analysis (RSA)]

BACKGROUND

Aseptic implant loosening is the most common cause of implant revisions in total hip and total knee arthroplasty. Roentgen Stereophotogrammetric Analysis (RSA) represents the current gold standard for the in-vivo assessment of implant fixation.

PRESENT SITUATION

Long-term clinical trials have shown that continuous implant migration within the first two postoperative years correlates strongly with a later aseptic loosening. Thus, the implant migration measured with RSA can be regarded as a reliable surrogate marker for later implant loosening. Over the past 40 years, RSA has been continuously further developed, and the model-based RSA approach has reduced the effort involved since markers attached to implant are no longer needed.

PERSPECTIVES

The RSA method is gaining importance in the certification process of new orthopaedic implants-for example, the Dutch Orthopedic Society has recommended phased-introduction and RSA studies for new hip implants. Furthermore, in the context of the new EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR), which took effect in May 2017, RSA gained relevance for investigating clinically unproven implants. Critics who associate MDR with hindering innovation can be countered in that the RSA method provides a predictive assessment of implant fixation after only two years of follow-up, which is significantly shorter than standard long-term clinical trials.

The Migration Pattern of a Cementless Hydroxyapatite-Coated Titanium Stem under Immediate Full Weight-Bearing-A Randomized Controlled Trial Using Model-Based RSA

(1) Background: High primary stability is important for the long-term survival of cementless femoral stems in total hip arthroplasty (THA). The objective of this study was to investigate the migration pattern of a hydroxyapatite-coated cementless hip stem developed for minimally invasive surgery using model-based radiostereometric analysis (RSA). (2) Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, 44 patients with an indication for cementless primary THA were randomly allocated to receive either the SL-PLUS MIA stem, developed for minimally invasive surgery, or the SL-PLUS stem (Smith & Nephew Orthopaedics, Baar, Switzerland) which served as a control group. Unlimited weight-bearing was permitted postoperatively in both groups. Model-based RSA was performed after six weeks and after 3, 6, 12 and 24 months postoperatively. (3) Results: Mean total stem subsidence at two-year follow-up was 0.40 mm (SD 0.66 mm) in the SL-PLUS group and 1.08 mm (SD 0.93 mm) in the SL-PLUS MIA group (p = 0.030). Stem subsidence occurred during the first six weeks after surgery, indicating initial settling of the stem under full weight-bearing. Both stem designs showed good osseointegration and high secondary stability with no further migration after initial settling. (4) Conclusions: Settling of a cementless straight femoral stem occurs during the first six weeks after surgery under full weight-bearing. Although initial stem migration was higher in the SL-PLUS MIA group, it had no influence on secondary stability. All implants showed good osseointegration and high secondary stability with no signs of implant loosening during this two-year follow-up period.

High precision and accuracy of model-based RSA for analysis of wrist arthroplasty

Radiostereometric analysis (RSA) is a method for measuring micromotion in joint arthroplasties. RSA has never been used in total wrist arthroplasties. We evaluated: (i) the precision of model-based RSA in total wrist arthroplasties measured in a phantom model and in patients; (ii) the number of bone markers necessary to ensure the precision; and (iii) the accuracy of model-based RSA in a phantom model. Reverse engineered models of radial and carpal/metacarpal components of two wrist arthroplasties (ReMotion® and Motec®) were obtained by laser scanning. Precision and accuracy of each arthroplasty were analyzed with regards to translation and rotation along the three coordinate axes. Precision was analyzed in 10 phantom and 30 clinical double examinations for each arthroplasty, and was expressed by a repeatability coefficient. The precision of different numbers and configurations of bone markers in the phantom model were compared. Accuracy was tested in a phantom model where the implants were attached to a micrometer, and was defined as the mean difference between measured and true migration. In the phantom model the precision for translations ranged from 0.03 to 0.14 mm and for rotations from 0.18 to 1.52°. In patients the precision for translations ranged from 0.06 to 0.18 mm, and for rotations from 0.32 to 2.18°. Less than four bone markers resulted in inferior precision. Accuracy ranged from -0.06 to 0.04 mm, and from -0.38 to -0.01°. Y-rotations could not be obtained from the Motec® due to rotational symmetry about the longitudinal axis. We conclude that model-based RSA in total wrist arthroplasties is precise, accurate, and feasible to use for clinical evaluation of micromotion in wrist arthroplasties. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:3053-3063, 2018.

Uncemented short stems in primary total hip arthroplasty: The state of the art

Over the last two decades, several conservative femoral prostheses have been designed. The goals of conservative stems include: the spearing of the trochanteric bone stock; a more physiological loading in the proximal femur reducing the risk of stress shielding; and to avoid a long stem into the diaphysis preventing impingement with the femoral cortex and thigh pain.

All stems designed to be less invasive than conventional uncemented stems are commonly named ‘short stems’. However, this term is misleading because it refers to a heterogeneous group of stems deeply different in terms of design, biomechanics and bearing. In the short-term follow-up, all conservative stems provided excellent survivorship. However, variable rates of complications were reported, including stem malalignment, incorrect stem sizing and intra-operative fracture.

Radiostereometric analysis (RSA) studies demonstrated that some conservative stems were affected by an early slight migration and rotation within the first months after surgery, followed by a secondary stable fixation. Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) studies demonstrated an implant-specific pattern of bone remodelling.

Although the vast majority of stems demonstrated a good osseointegration, some prostheses transferred loads particularly to the lateral and distal-medial regions, favouring proximal stress shielding and bone atrophy in the great trochanter and calcar regions.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2018;3:149-159. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.3.170052

Error performances of a model-based biplane fluoroscopic system for tracking knee prosthesis during treadmill gait task

Roentgen stereophotogrammetry analysis technique allows an accurate measurement of knee joint prosthesis position and orientation using two X-ray images. Although this technique is used generally during static procedure, it is possible to use it with a biplane fluoroscopic system to measure the prosthesis kinematics during functional tasks (e.g., gait, squat, jump) performed in a laboratory environment. However, the performance of the system in terms of errors for the measurements and the model-based matching algorithm are not well known for dynamic tasks such as walking. The goal of this study was to estimate the static and dynamic errors of a model-based biplane fluoroscopic system for a treadmill gait task and analyze the error performance according to the speed and location of the knee joint prosthesis relative to X-ray sources. The results show a static maximum error (RMSE) of 0.13° for orientation and 0.06 mm for position for prosthesis components. The dynamic errors were different for each axis of the acquisition system and each prosthesis component. The largest dynamic error was along the vertical axis for the position (RMSE = 2.42 mm) and along the medio-lateral axis (perpendicular to movement) for the orientation (RMSE = 0.95°). As expected, the error depends on the distance between the prosthesis and the source in the acquisition system as well as the linear and angular velocity of the movement. The most accurate dynamic measure was around the centroid of the acquisition system, while kinematics measurements close to the X-rays detectors gave the worst errors.

Radiostereometric migration analysis of the Cerafit femoral stem: 28 patients followed for 2 years

Radiostereometric analysis (RSA) is the gold standard evaluating micromovements after total hip arthroplasty. The aim of this study was to investigate the migratory pattern of an uncemented femoral stem during the first 2 years after surgery. We followed 28 patients with a mean age of 57 (SD 13) years for the first two postoperative years. Radiostereometric analysis was used to measure the translation and rotation of the femoral component. The Harris hip score (HHS) was determined to evaluate the clinical outcome. No stem had to be revised. The mean HHS advanced from 35 (SD 11) preoperative to 89 (SD 10) 1 year after surgery. At the end of the observation period, mean subsidence of the stem was 0.26 mm (SD 0.82). Maximum total point motion (MTPM) was 1.23 mm (SD 1.22). The main distal migration took place up to 6 weeks after surgery with nearly no further subsidence up to 2 years postoperatively. All the measured migrations of the hip stem were very small. Results of the HHS demonstrate good clinical outcome. Long-term RSA is necessary to assess possible late migration of the Cerafit standard femoral stem.

Use of single-representative reverse-engineered surface-models for RSA does not affect measurement accuracy and precision

Implant migration can be accurately quantified by model-based Roentgen stereophotogrammetric analysis (RSA), using an implant surface model to locate the implant relative to the bone. In a clinical situation, a single reverse engineering (RE) model for each implant type and size is used. It is unclear to what extent the accuracy and precision of migration measurement is affected by implant manufacturing variability unaccounted for by a single representative model. Individual RE models were generated for five short-stem hip implants of the same type and size. Two phantom analyses and one clinical analysis were performed: "Accuracy-matched models": one stem was assessed, and the results from the original RE model were compared with randomly selected models. "Accuracy-random model": each of the five stems was assessed and analyzed using one randomly selected RE model. "Precision-clinical setting": implant migration was calculated for eight patients, and all five available RE models were applied to each case. For the two phantom experiments, the 95%CI of the bias ranged from -0.28 mm to 0.30 mm for translation and -2.3° to 2.5° for rotation. In the clinical setting, precision is less than 0.5 mm and 1.2° for translation and rotation, respectively, except for rotations about the proximodistal axis (<4.1°). High accuracy and precision of model-based RSA can be achieved and are not biased by using a single representative RE model. At least for implants similar in shape to the investigated short-stem, individual models are not necessary. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:903-910, 2016.

Prospective clinical and radiostereometric analysis of the Fitmore short-stem total hip arthroplasty

INTRODUCTION

Uncemented short, curved femoral stems may help save proximal bone stock during total hip arthroplasty (THA) and facilitate insertion in minimal invasive surgery. The aim of this 2 year, prospective, single-center study was to examine the stability and migration of the Fitmore (®) stem in THA using model-based radiostereometric analysis (RSA), and thus predict the implant's long-term survival. In addition, we evaluated the stem's clinical performance using standard clinical measures.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We conducted a prospective cohort study of 34 THA patients who received the short Fitmore Hip Stem (Zimmer, Winterthur, Switzerland). At 3, 6, 12 and 24 months postoperatively, the patients underwent clinical evaluation and radiostereometric analysis (RSA) to measure stem migration.

RESULTS

RSA analysis revealed a mean subsidence of -0.39 mm (95 % CI -0.60 to -0.18) at 3 months with no further migration after 2 years. Mean internal rotation along the longitudinal axis was 1.09° (95 % CI 0.52-1.66) at 2 years, versus 0.85° (95 % CI 0.44-1.26) at 3 months. The Harris hip score improved from 60 (range 30-80) preoperatively to 99 (range 83-100) after 2 years. Three patients underwent revision due to deep infection, non-specific thigh pain and aseptic loosening in one case.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that the Fitmore Hip Stem stabilizes after 3 months and achieves good short-term clinical results in most cases.

Absence of a Tourniquet Does Not Affect Fixation of Cemented TKA: A Randomized RSA Study of 70 Patients

We aimed to determine whether not using a tourniquet in cemented TKA would affect migration of the tibial component measured by radiosterometric analysis (RSA). Seventy patients were randomized into a tourniquet group and a non-tourniquet group and using model-based RSA, the migration of the tibial component was analyzed. Primary and secondary outcome measures were maximum total point motion (MTPM) and translations and rotations. Follow-up period was 2 years. The tibial component was well fixated in both groups and no significant difference in migration between the two groups was detected (P=0.632). Mean MTPM (SD) was 0.47 mm (0.16) in the tourniquet group and 0.45 mm (0.21) in the non-tourniquet group. Absence of tourniquet indicates that stable fixation of the tibial component can be achieved in cemented TKA.

Adherence of hip and knee arthroplasty studies to RSA standardization guidelines. A systematic review

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Guidelines for standardization of radiostereometry (RSA) of implants were published in 2005 to facilitate comparison of outcomes between various research groups. In this systematic review, we determined how well studies have adhered to these guidelines.

METHODS

We carried out a literature search to identify all articles published between January 2000 and December 2011 that used RSA in the evaluation of hip or knee prosthesis migration. 2 investigators independently evaluated each of the studies for adherence to the 13 individual guideline items. Since some of the 13 points included more than 1 criterion, studies were assessed on whether each point was fully met, partially met, or not met.

RESULTS

153 studies that met our inclusion criteria were identified. 61 of these were published before the guidelines were introduced (2000-2005) and 92 after the guidelines were introduced (2006-2011). The methodological quality of RSA studies clearly improved from 2000 to 2011. None of the studies fully met all 13 guidelines. Nearly half (43) of the studies published after the guidelines demonstrated a high methodological quality and adhered at least partially to 10 of the 13 guidelines, whereas less than one-fifth (11) of the studies published before the guidelines had the same methodological quality. Commonly unaddressed guideline items were related to imaging methodology, determination of precision from double examinations, and also mean error of rigid-body fitting and condition number cutoff levels.

INTERPRETATION

The guidelines have improved methodological reporting in RSA studies, but adherence to these guidelines is still relatively low. There is a need to update and clarify the guidelines for clinical hip and knee arthroplasty RSA studies.

Comparison of two different Radiostereometric analysis (RSA) systems with markerless elementary geometrical shape modeling for the measurement of stem migration

Radiostereometric analysis (RSA) is the gold standard of measurement for in vivo 3D implants migration.

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vivo precision of 2 RSA marker-based systems compared with that of marker-free, elementary geometrical shape modeling RSA.

METHODS

Stem migration was measured in 50 patients recruited from an on-going Randomized Controlled Trial. We performed marker-based analysis with the Um RSA and RSAcore systems and compared these results with those of the elementary geometrical shape RSA.

FINDINGS

The precision for subsidence was 0.118 mm for Um RSA, 0.141 mm for RSAcore, and 0.136 mm for elementary geometrical shape RSA. The precision for retroversion was 1.3° for elementary geometrical shape RSA, approximately 2-fold greater than that for the other methods. The intraclass correlation coefficient between the marker-based systems and elementary geometrical shape RSA was approximately 0.5 for retroversion. All 3 methods yielded ICCs for subsidence and varus-valgus rotation above 0.9.

DISCUSSION

We found an excellent correlation between marker-based RSA and elementary geometrical shape RSA for subsidence and varus-valgus rotation, independent of the system used. The precisions for out-of-plane migration were inferior for elementary geometrical shape RSA. Therefore, as a mechanism of failure, retroversion may be more difficult to detect early. This is to our knowledge the first study to compare different RSA systems with or without markers on the implant.

INTERPRETATION

Marker-based RSA has high precision in all planes, independent of the system used. Elementary geometrical shape RSA is inferior in out-of-plane migration.

The effect of patient positioning on the precision of model-based radiostereometric analysis

A repeatable method for in vivo and in vitro measurement of polyethylene wear in total knee replacement (TKA) is needed. This research examines the model-based radiostereometric analysis' (MBRSA) in vitro precision under different patient-radiograph orientations and flexion angles of the knee using a TKA phantom. Anterior-posterior and medial-lateral imaging orientations showed the highest precision; better than 0.036mm (3-dimensional translation) and 0.089° (3-dimensional rotation). Flexion of the knee did not affect MBRSA precision. Medial-lateral imaging is advantageous as it allows for flexion of the knee joint during an RSA examination, thus providing greater information for wear measurement.

High knee valgus in female subjects does not yield higher knee translations during drop landings: a biplane fluoroscopic study

The goal of this study was to determine the effects of peak knee valgus angle and peak knee abductor moment on the anterior, medial, and lateral tibial translations (ATT, MTT, LTT) in the "at risk" female knee during drop landing. Fifteen female subjects performed drop landings from 40 cm. Three-dimension knee motion was simultaneously recorded using a high speed, biplane fluoroscopy system, and a video-based motion analysis system. Valgus knee angles and knee abduction moments were stratified into low, intermediate, and high groups and peak ATT, MTT, and LTT were compared between these groups with ANOVA (α = 0.05). Significant differences were observed between stratified groups in peak knee valgus angle (p < 0.0001) and peak knee abduction moment (p < 0.0001). However, no corresponding differences in peak ATT, LTT, and MTT between groups exhibiting low to high-peak knee valgus angles (ATT: p = 0.80; LTT: p = 0.25; MTT: p = 0.72); or, in peak ATT (p = 0.61), LTT (p = 0.26) and MTT (p = 0.96) translations when stratified according to low to high knee abduction moments, were found. We conclude that the healthy female knee is tightly regulated with regard to translations even when motion analysis derived knee valgus angles and abduction moments are high.

Static and dynamic error of a biplanar videoradiography system using marker-based and markerless tracking techniques

The use of biplanar videoradiography technology has become increasingly popular for evaluating joint function in vivo. Two fundamentally different methods are currently employed to reconstruct 3D bone motions captured using this technology. Marker-based tracking requires at least three radio-opaque markers to be implanted in the bone of interest. Markerless tracking makes use of algorithms designed to match 3D bone shapes to biplanar videoradiography data. In order to reliably quantify in vivo bone motion, the systematic error of these tracking techniques should be evaluated. Herein, we present new markerless tracking software that makes use of modern GPU technology, describe a versatile method for quantifying the systematic error of a biplanar videoradiography motion capture system using independent gold standard instrumentation, and evaluate the systematic error of the W.M. Keck XROMM Facility's biplanar videoradiography system using both marker-based and markerless tracking algorithms under static and dynamic motion conditions. A polycarbonate flag embedded with 12 radio-opaque markers was used to evaluate the systematic error of the marker-based tracking algorithm. Three human cadaveric bones (distal femur, distal radius, and distal ulna) were used to evaluate the systematic error of the markerless tracking algorithm. The systematic error was evaluated by comparing motions to independent gold standard instrumentation. Static motions were compared to high accuracy linear and rotary stages while dynamic motions were compared to a high accuracy angular displacement transducer. Marker-based tracking was shown to effectively track motion to within 0.1 mm and 0.1 deg under static and dynamic conditions. Furthermore, the presented results indicate that markerless tracking can be used to effectively track rapid bone motions to within 0.15 deg for the distal aspects of the femur, radius, and ulna. Both marker-based and markerless tracking techniques were in excellent agreement with the gold standard instrumentation for both static and dynamic testing protocols. Future research will employ these techniques to quantify in vivo joint motion for high-speed upper and lower extremity impacts such as jumping, landing, and hammering.

Markerless Roentgen Stereophotogrammetric Analysis for in vivo implant migration measurement using three dimensional surface models to represent bone

Recent studies have shown that model-based RSA using implant surface models to detect in vivo migration is as accurate as the classical marker-based RSA method. Use of bone surface models would be a further advancement of the model-based method by decreasing complications arising from marker insertion. The aim of this pilot investigation was to assess the feasibility of a "completely markerless" model-based RSA in detecting migration of an implant using bone surface models instead of bone markers. A total knee arthroplasty (TKA) was performed on a human cadaver knee, which was subsequently investigated by repeated RSA measurements performed by one observer. The cadaver knee was CT scanned prior to implantation of the TKA. Tibia-fibular surface models were created using two different commercially available software packages to investigate the effect of segmentation software on the accuracy of repeated migration measures of zero displacement by one observer. Reverse engineered surface models of the TKA tibial component were created. The analysis of the RSA images was repeated 10 times by one individual observer. For the markerless method, the greatest apparent migration observed about the three anatomical axes investigated was between -2.08 and 1.35 mm (SD ≤ 0.88) for z-axis translation, and -4.57° to 7.86° (SD ≤ 3.17) for R(y)-axis rotation, which were well beyond out of the range of what is typically considered adequate for clinically relevant RSA measurements. Use of tibia-fibular surface models of the bone instead of markers could provide practical advantages in evaluating implant migration. However, we found the accuracy and precision of the markerless approach to be lower than that of marker-based RSA, to a degree which precludes the use of this method for measuring implant migration in its present form.

Prosthetic component segmentation with blur compensation: a fast method for 3D fluoroscopy

A new method for prosthetic component segmentation from fluoroscopic images is presented. The hybrid approach we propose combines diffusion filtering, region growing and level-set techniques without exploiting any a priori knowledge of the analyzed geometry. The method was evaluated on a synthetic dataset including 270 images of knee and hip prosthesis merged to real fluoroscopic data simulating different conditions of blurring and illumination gradient. The performance of the method was assessed by comparing estimated contours to references using different metrics. Results showed that the segmentation procedure is fast, accurate, independent on the operator as well as on the specific geometrical characteristics of the prosthetic component, and able to compensate for amount of blurring and illumination gradient. Importantly, the method allows a strong reduction of required user interaction time when compared to traditional segmentation techniques. Its effectiveness and robustness in different image conditions, together with simplicity and fast implementation, make this prosthetic component segmentation procedure promising and suitable for multiple clinical applications including assessment of in vivo joint kinematics in a variety of cases.

The long head of the biceps tendon has minimal effect on in vivo glenohumeral kinematics: a biplane fluoroscopy study

BACKGROUND

The in vivo stabilizing role of the long head of the biceps tendon (LHB) is poorly understood. While cadaveric studies report that the loaded LHB constrains translations in all directions, clinical data suggest that there is no clinically demonstrable alteration in glenohumeral position after LHB tenodesis or tenotomy. The purpose of this study was to investigate potential alterations in glenohumeral kinematics after LHB tenodesis during 3 dynamic in vivo motions using a biplane fluoroscopy system.

HYPOTHESIS

Our hypothesis was that there would be no difference in glenohumeral translations greater than 1.0 mm between shoulders after biceps tenodesis and healthy contralateral shoulders.

STUDY DESIGN

Controlled laboratory study.

METHODS

Five patients who underwent unilateral, open subpectoral tenodesis performed abduction, a simulated late cocking phase of a throw, and simulated lifting with both their tenodesed shoulder and their contralateral healthy shoulder inside a biplane fluoroscopy system. Dynamic 3-dimensional glenohumeral positions and electromyography activity of the biceps brachii muscle were determined and compared.

RESULTS

Significant glenohumeral translations occurred in both shoulders for abduction (3.4 mm inferiorly; P < .01) and simulated late cocking (2.6 mm anteriorly; P < .01). The mean difference for each motion in glenohumeral position between the tenodesed and the contralateral healthy shoulders was always less than 1.0 mm. The tenodesed shoulders were more anterior (centered) during abduction (0.7 mm; P < .01) and for the eccentric phase of the simulated late cocking motion (0.9 mm; P < .02). No significant differences were found during the simulated lifting motion and in the superior-inferior direction.

CONCLUSION

The effect of biceps tenodesis on glenohumeral position during the motions studied in vivo was minimal compared with physiological translations and interpatient variability.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Our findings demonstrated that LHB tenodesis does not dramatically alter glenohumeral position during dynamic motions, suggesting the risk for clinically significant alterations in glenohumeral kinematics after tenodesis is low in otherwise intact shoulders.

Relationship of anterior knee laxity to knee translations during drop landings: a bi-plane fluoroscopy study

PURPOSE

Passive anterior knee laxity has been linked to non-contact ACL injury risk. High deceleration movements have been implicated in the non-contact ACL injury mechanism, and evidence suggests that greater anterior tibial translations (ATT) may occur in healthy knees that are lax compared to a tight knee. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between anterior knee laxity scores and ATT during drop landings using biplane fluoroscopy.

METHODS

Sixteen healthy adults (10 women; 6 men) performed stiff drop landings (40 cm) while being filmed using a high-speed, biplane fluoroscopy system. Initial, peak and excursions for rotations and translations were calculated and regression analysis used to determine the 6DoF kinematic relationships with KT1000 scores with peak ATT occurring during the landing.

RESULTS

KT1000 values were (+) correlated with peak ATT values for group (r = 0.89; P < 0.0001) and both genders (males, r = 0.97; P = 0.0003; females, r = 0.93; P = < 0.0001). Regression analysis yielded a significant linear fit for the group (r (2) = 0.80; Y (ATT-group) = - 0.516 + 1.2 × X (KT1000-group)) and for each gender (females: r(2) = 0.86; Y (ATT-females) = 0.074 + 1.2 × X (KT1000-females) and males: r (2) = 0.94; Y (ATT-males) = - 0.79 + 1.2 × X (KT1000-males)).

CONCLUSION

A strong relationship was observed between passive anterior knee laxity measured via KT1000 and peak ATT experienced during dynamic activity in otherwise healthy persons performing a stiff drop-landing motion.

Dual mobility hip arthroplasty wear measurement: Experimental accuracy assessment using radiostereometric analysis (RSA)

INTRODUCTION

The use of dual mobility cups is an effective method to prevent dislocations. However, the specific design of these implants can raise the suspicion of increased wear and subsequent periprosthetic osteolysis.

HYPOTHESIS

Using radiostereometric analysis (RSA), migration of the femoral head inside the cup of a dual mobility implant can be defined to apprehend polyethylene wear rate.

STUDY OBJECTIVES

The study aimed to establish the precision of RSA measurement of femoral head migration in the cup of a dual mobility implant, and its intra- and interobserver variability.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total hip prosthesis phantom was implanted and placed under weight loading conditions in a simulator. Model-based RSA measurement of implant penetration involved specially machined polyethylene liners with increasing concentric wear (no wear, then 0.25, 0.5 and 0.75mm). Three examiners, blinded to the level of wear, analyzed (10 times) the radiostereometric films of the four liners. There was one experienced, one trained, and one inexperienced examiner. Statistical analysis measured the accuracy, precision, and intra- and interobserver variability by calculating Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), Concordance Correlation Coefficient (CCC), Intra Class correlation Coefficient (ICC), and Bland-Altman plots.

RESULTS

Our protocol, that used a simple geometric model rather than the manufacturer's CAD files, showed precision of 0.072mm and accuracy of 0.034mm, comparable with machining tolerances with low variability. Correlation between wear measurement and true value was excellent with a CCC of 0.9772. Intraobserver reproducibility was very good with an ICC of 0.9856, 0.9883 and 0.9842, respectively for examiners 1, 2 and 3. Interobserver reproducibility was excellent with a CCC of 0.9818 between examiners 2 and 1, and 0.9713 between examiners 3 and 1.

DISCUSSION

Quantification of wear is indispensable for the surveillance of dual mobility implants. This in vitro study validates our measurement method. Our results, and comparison with other studies using different measurement technologies (RSA, standard radiographs, Martell method) make model-based RSA the reference method for measuring the wear of total hip prostheses in vivo.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 3. Prospective diagnostic study.

Trapeziometacarpal joint implants can be evaluated by roentgen stereophotogrammetric analysis

Both marker-based roentgen stereophotogrammetric analysis (RSA) and model-based RSA have been helpful evaluation tools in hip and knee arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to test both model-based and marker-based RSA in the evaluation of total joint prostheses of the trapeziometacarpal joint. In a phantom study, the precision of marker-based RSA was tested with a cemented polyethylene cup and compared with the precision of model-based RSA in an uncemented Elektra screw cup. The precision of model-based RSA of the metacarpal stem was tested using an uncemented Elektra metacarpal stem. In a clinical study 11 patients had double stereo radiographs followed by RSA analysis. The precision of translation in both marker-based and model-based RSA was sufficient for clinical use, but rotation cannot be estimated with sufficient precision.

Development of a Model-Based Roentgen Stereophotogrammetric Analysis System to Measure Polyethylene Wear in Unicompartmental Arthroplasty

One of the most important causes of failure in unicompartmental knee replacement (UKR) is polyethylene wear. The aim of this study was to develop and assess a novel Roentgen stereophotogrammetric analysis (RSA)-based method for the measurement of linear wear suitable for UKR.

Model-based RSA was used to estimate the linear wear of polyethylene bearings in UKR. A phantom was used to validate the method using in vitro measured bearing thicknesses and the linear wear of ten control bearings was estimated in vivo. Computer aided design (CAD) models for the UKRs were used in the model-based RSA system.

There was no statistically significant difference between the estimated and measured bearing thicknesses using the CAD models ( p = 0.386). The precision of the linear wear measurement, expressed as the standard deviation of the difference between the estimated and measured bearing thickness was 0.163 mm. The bias (mean difference) was 0.030 mm.

The use of RSA to measure in vivo wear in a UKR has been shown to be accurate in a phantom, and has been verified with in vivo measured controls. The technique does not require surgical implantation of marker balls and can be used retrospectively.