Optimizing In Vitro Knee Biomechanics Research: The Utility Of Functionally Derived Joint Coordinate Systems
Keywords:
Knee joint, kinematics, in vitro testing, functional joint coordinate systems, anatomical landmarks, kinematic crosstalk, biomechanics, orthopedics, robotic testingAbstract
Accurate characterization of knee joint kinematics is paramount for understanding musculoskeletal function, evaluating injury mechanisms, and optimizing the design of orthopedic interventions such as total knee arthroplasty. In vitro knee testing, often employing robotic systems, provides a controlled environment for these investigations. However, the precise definition of a consistent and physiologically relevant joint coordinate system (JCS) remains a critical challenge. Traditional anatomically defined JCS are susceptible to significant inter- and intra-observer variability and kinematic crosstalk errors. This article elucidates the substantial benefits of utilizing functional joint coordinate systems (FJCS) in in vitro knee testing. By deriving joint axes and origins from the actual motion of the joint, FJCS offer improved reproducibility, reduced kinematic crosstalk, and a more physiologically meaningful representation of complex knee kinematics, including coupled motions like the screw-home mechanism. We conceptually outline the methodologies for implementing FJCS in robotic in vitro setups and discuss how their application yields more reliable and accurate data for biomechanical analyses, ultimately enhancing the validity and clinical relevance of research on knee function, injury, and prosthesis performance.
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