Correlation of the tibial tuberosity-trochlear groove distance with the Q-angle

Dickschas J, Harrer J, Bayer T, Schwitulla J, Strecker W (2016)

Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2016

Journal

Knee Surgery Sports Traumatology Arthroscopy Springer Verlag (Germany)

Book Volume: 24

Pages Range: 915-20

Journal Issue: 3

DOI: 10.1007/s00167-014-3426-2

Abstract

The Q-angle has been used for years to quantify lateralization of the patella. The tibial tuberosity-trochlea groove distance (TT-TG distance) was introduced to analyse patellar tracking. Does a significant correlation exist between these two parameters? Do other significant interrelations exist between the Q-angle/TT-TG distance, torsion of the femur and tibia, the frontal axis, overall leg length, gender, former patellar dislocation, BMI?One hundred knees in 55 patients with patellofemoral symptoms were included in a prospective study. All patients underwent clinical examination, including measurement of the Q-angle. A torsional CT was obtained from all patients.The correlation coefficient was 0.33/0.34 (left/right leg), showing that the TT-TG distance tends to rise in direct ratio to a rising Q-angle. Thus, a significant correlation was found (p = 0.017). Femoral and tibial torsion had a positive effect on the TT-TG distance, but showed no significant correlation. Leg length had a significant effect on the TT-TG distance (p = 0.04). The frontal axis had a nonsignificant influence on the Q-angle or TT-TG distance. On average, the Q-angle in women was 2.38° greater than it was in men, but the difference was not significant.A significant correlation was noted between the Q-angle and the TT-TG distance. Both depend on various parameters and must be assessed for the analysis of patellofemoral maltracking. The Q-angle did not differ significantly between men and women; thus, the conclusion is that no different ranges need not be used.Diagnostic study, Level III.

Authors with CRIS profile

Judith Schwitulla Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Involved external institutions

Klinikum Bamberg DE Germany (DE)

How to cite

APA:

Dickschas, J., Harrer, J., Bayer, T., Schwitulla, J., & Strecker, W. (2016). Correlation of the tibial tuberosity-trochlear groove distance with the Q-angle. Knee Surgery Sports Traumatology Arthroscopy, 24(3), 915-20. https://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s00167-014-3426-2

MLA:

Dickschas, Joerg, et al. "Correlation of the tibial tuberosity-trochlear groove distance with the Q-angle." Knee Surgery Sports Traumatology Arthroscopy 24.3 (2016): 915-20.

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