Semin Musculoskelet Radiol 2018; 22(S 01): S1-S5
DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1639534
Scientific Presentations and Posters
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Intercondylar Notch and Cruciate Ligaments in Osteoarthritis

Lena Hirtler
1   Abteilung für Anatomie, Zentrum für Anatomie und Zellbiologie, Medizinische Universität Wien
,
Markus Schreiner
2   University Klinik für Radiologie und Nuklearmedizin, Medizinische Universität Wien
,
Sebastian Röhrich
2   University Klinik für Radiologie und Nuklearmedizin, Medizinische Universität Wien
,
Arno Hirtler
1   Abteilung für Anatomie, Zentrum für Anatomie und Zellbiologie, Medizinische Universität Wien
,
Franz Kainberger
2   University Klinik für Radiologie und Nuklearmedizin, Medizinische Universität Wien
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
26 March 2018 (online)

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Introduction: The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is not only impinged against the roof but also against the lateral wall of the intercondylar notch (IN). Changes during the progression of osteoarthritis could be relevant in predicting the risk for ACL rupture and degeneration. Our purpose was to evaluate the influence of osteoarthritis on IN morphology and on the cruciate ligaments.

Material and Methods: Image data were retrieved from the Osteoarthritis Initiative. The width of the lateral and medial femoral condyle, the notch width (NW), as well as the total width of the distal femur, were measured. The notch width index (NWI) was calculated. On whole-leg radiographs the leg alignment was measured. The morphology of the ACL and the posterior cruciate ligament were assessed. Three types of shapes (A shape, inverse U shape, and horseshoe shape) were used to evaluate the IN shape.

Results: The morphology of the IN is directly influenced by the development of osteoarthritis. The horseshoe shape in particular is directly correlated with rupture of the ACL. Changes to the IN also significantly influence the morphology of the cruciate ligaments.

Conclusion: The IN is not a static area but undergoes continuous changes also in osteoarthritis. Measurements in combination with IN shape evaluation could improve risk estimates for concomitant ligamentous injury or degeneration.