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Erschienen in:
01.12.2011 | Original Paper
Magnetic resonance imaging assessment of tibial tuberosity–trochlear groove distance: normal values for males and females
Erschienen in: International Orthopaedics | Ausgabe 12/2011
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Purpose
The aim of this study was to report normal values of the tibial tuberosity–trochlear groove distance (TTTG) in males and females and assess the reliability of MRI in measuring TTTG.
Methods
Patients presenting with a suspected meniscus injury without any patellofemoral or ligamentous instability, and arthroscopically normal cruciate ligaments and patellofemoral joints were included in the study. K-PACS© was used for MRI analysis and was performed by three observers blinded to each others’ measurements.
Results
One hundred patients (57 males, 43 females) were recruited from 2006–2010. The mean TTTG in males was 9.91 mm (95% CI 8.9–10.8 mm) and in females 10.04 mm (95% CI 8.9–11.1). The coefficient of variation was <10% for both intra and inter-observer analysis.
Conclusions
The normal TTTG distance is 10 ± 1 mm with MRI being a reliable method of measurement. Literature supports a high degree of variability in reporting TTTG. This study establishes normal TTTG values, which will help in the assessment and treatment of patellofemoral disorders.