The Distance between Tibial Tubercle and Trochlear Groove Correlates with Knee Articular Torsion

Abstract

This study aims to correlate the tibial tubercle to trochlear groove (TT-TG) distance with knee axial alignment. The hypothesis is that as internal torsion of the distal femur or external torsion of the proximal tibial increases, the TT-TG distance increases. We designed a cross-sectional study approved by our institutional ethics review board. We reviewed 32 computed tomography angiographies of patients that have nonjoint or bone-related symptoms. Distal femoral torsion, proximal tibial torsion, knee articular torsion (AT), and TT-TG distance were measured. A regression analysis between the TT-TG distance and the AT was performed. A positive correlation between the TT-TG distance and the AT was found. An increase in external torsion of the proximal tibial or an increase in internal torsion of the distal femur increases the TT-TG distance. For a correct interpretation of the TT to trochlear groove distance, we propose that the axial alignment should be included in the regular analysis of patellofemoral disease.

Keywords

tibial tubercle to trochlea groove distance - patellofemoral pain - patellar instability - articular torsion

Publication History

Received: 21 May 2019

Accepted: 10 November 2019

Article published online:
06 January 2020

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