Semin Musculoskelet Radiol 2018; 22(04): 435-443
DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1667118
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Assessment of Loosening and Rotational Malalignment Following Knee Endoprosthesis or Other Surgical Components

Ioan N. Gemescu
1   Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, University Emergency Hospital Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
,
Marc-André Weber
2   Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center Rostock, Rostock, Germany
,
Christoph Rehnitz
3   Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
,
Wolfram Mittelmeier
4   Department of Orthopaedics, Biomechanics and Implant Technology Research Laboratory Rostock, University Medicine Rostock, Germany
,
John A. Carrino
5   Department of Radiology and Imaging, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York
,
Kolja M. Thierfelder
2   Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center Rostock, Rostock, Germany
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
22 August 2018 (online)

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Abstract

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has significant medical and economic implications. The correct placement of the femoral and tibial components is vital to ensure a functional knee and also low failure and revision surgery rates. This article provides the most relevant information regarding knee endoprosthesis from a radiologic point of view. Basic information on the recommended alignment of the femoral and tibial components in TKA and how to measure them are discussed. We then present the most important axial plane rotational references for the femoral and the tibial components. The optimal coronal alignment, illustrating the axes of the lower limb, and loosening as the major complication are also discussed. Finally, we offer a detailed example of rotational assessment.