Three-Dimensional Modeling and Simulation of Normal Knee Joint Motion

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) modeling and simulation have important applications in orthopedic surgery. This technology can be used to create a 3D model of anatomic structures that can be used as a template to perform surgical simulations preoperatively. This study was aimed to apply 3D modeling to simulate flexion of a human knee based on the normal knee joint motion that includes tibial internal rotation and femoral rollback under high degree knee flexion. A 3D knee joint model was constructed from a two-dimensional computed tomography image of a normal knee joint. Based on the reconstructed 3D model of the knee joint, simulation of knee joint flexion at 90,100,110,120,130, and 140 degrees was conducted while replicating the normal knee joint motion. The rotation, translation, and tilt wizards allow the simulation of a complex motion that happens at the human knee joint. Simulation of knee joint motion allows replication of the complex motion during a gait cycle and can offer an alternative option to in vivo experiments to simulate surgical techniques, analyse knee implants and conduct biomechanical studies. This study has demonstrated that 3D modeling and simulation technology is an important tool to study the relationship between the degree of knee flexion and femoral tunnel orientation in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Accordingly, the joint flexion angle, and the sagittal and axial drill angles should be taken into consideration in ACL reconstruction.