The MRI based Morphometric analysis of tibial Plateau in Pakistani population: A cross sectional survey

Abstract

Purpose The aim of the study was to  offer a basis for individualized implant/prosthesis adjustment, to assess the anthropometric data of the proximal tibial plateau in the Pakistani population using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We hypothesized that tibial components currently available onthe market do not fulfil the requirements of this population and a new tibial component design may be required.

Methods Anthropometric data from the proximal tibia of 121 knees (28 women and 93 men)in Pakistani subjects were measured using magnetic resonance imaging. We measured the mediolateral,middle anteroposterior, medial and lateral anteroposterior dimensions and the aspect ratio of the resected proximaltibial surface. All morphological data were compared with the dimensions of four contemporary tibial implants,including asymmetric and symmetric design types.

Results The dimensions of the tibial plateau of Pakistani knees demonstrated significant differences in AP, ML, MAP, LAP, CM & CL according  to gender (P < 0.05). Pearson coefficient correlation test revealed significant negative correlation (-0.7) between AR and AP dimension of tibial specimens irrespective of gender. Moreover  vast majority of tibial implants involved in this study tend to overhang or under hang mediolaterally.

Conclusion

Tibial components designed according to anthropometric measurements did not closely match those of the local tibia specimens, according to a comparison with tibial components of commonly used TKR implants. These data could provide the basis for designing the optimal  tibial component for this population, required for best fit.

Keywords Total knee arthroplasty (TKA), Total knee replacement (TKR),  Tibial plateau anthropometry, Tibial component, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)