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VOLUME 16 , ISSUE 2 ( May-August, 2021 ) > List of Articles

Original Article

Comparison of Mechanical Performance between Circular Frames and Biplanar Distraction Devices for Knee Joint Distraction

James MY Chowdhury, Beth Lineham, Matthew Pallett, Hemant G Pandit, Todd D Stewart, Paul J Harwood

Keywords : Arthrodiastasis, Arthrodistraction, Biomechanical study, Circular frame, External fixator, Knee, Knee joint distraction, Knee osteoarthritis, Pain

Citation Information : Chowdhury JM, Lineham B, Pallett M, Pandit HG, Stewart TD, Harwood PJ. Comparison of Mechanical Performance between Circular Frames and Biplanar Distraction Devices for Knee Joint Distraction. 2021; 16 (2):71-77.

DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-10080-1530

License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0

Published Online: 27-10-2021

Copyright Statement:  Copyright © 2021; The Author(s).


Abstract

Aim and objective: This study was designed to test and compare the mechanical performance of the biplanar ArthroSave KneeReviver and a circular frame construct with the intended use of providing a mechanically favourable environment for cartilage regeneration across a knee joint. Materials and methods: Three similar constructs of the two devices were applied to biomechanical testing sawbones, with the knee distracted by 8 mm. The constructs were vertically loaded to 800 N in an Instron testing machine at 20 mm/minute. Tests were conducted in neutral hip flexion and at 12° of hip flexion and extension, to mimic leg position in gait. Displacement measurements were taken from the Instron machine, and three-dimensional joint motion was recorded using an Optotrak Certus motion capture system. Results: Overall axial rigidity was similar between the two devices (circular frame, 81.6 N/mm ± 5.9; and KneeReviver, 79.5 N/mm ± 25.1 with hip neutral) and similar in different hip positions. At the point of joint contact, the overall rigidity of the circular frame increased significantly more than the KneeReviver (491 N/mm ± 27 and 93 N/mm ± 32, respectively, p <0.001). There was more variability between models in the KneeReviver. There was more off-axis motion in the KneeReviver, mainly due to increasing knee flexion on loading. This was exacerbated with the hip in flexion and extension but remained small, with the maximal off-axis displacement being 7 mm/3°. Conclusion: The circular frame provides a similar mechanical environment to the novel KneeReviver device, for which most clinical data are available. These findings suggest that both devices appear a viable option for knee joint distraction (KJD). Further clinical data will help inform mode of application. Clinical significance: KJD is a relatively novel technique for use in osteoarthritis (OA), and it remains unclear which distraction devices provide appropriate mechanics. Our testing gives evidence to support either option for further use.


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