In vivo length change patterns of the medial and lateral collateral ligaments along the flexion path of the knee.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The knowledge of the function of the collateral ligaments-i.e., superficial medial collateral ligament (sMCL), deep medial collateral ligament (dMCL) and lateral collateral ligament (LCL)-in the entire range of knee flexion is important for soft tissue balance during total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The objective of this study was to investigate the length changes of different portions (anterior, middle and posterior) of the sMCL, dMCL and LCL during in vivo weightbearing flexion from full extension to maximal knee flexion. METHODS: Using a dual fluoroscopic imaging system, eight healthy knees were imaged while performing a lunge from full extension to maximal flexion. The length changes of each portion of the collateral ligaments were measured along the flexion path of the knee. RESULTS: All anterior portions of the collateral ligaments were shown to have increasing length with flexion except that of the sMCL, which showed a reduction in length at high flexion. The middle portions showed minimal change in lengths except that of the sMCL, which showed a consistent reduction in length with flexion. All posterior portions showed reduction in lengths with flexion. CONCLUSIONS: These data indicated that every portion of the ligaments may play important roles in knee stability at different knee flexion range. The soft tissue releasing during TKA may need to consider the function of the ligament portions along the entire flexion path including maximum flexion. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III.