Trochlea Sulcus and Lateral Trochlea Inclination Angles in Kenyans: An Osteometric Study

Abstract

Background: The trochlea sulcus and lateral trochlea inclination angles have important implications in the biomechanics of the patellofemoral joint. Abnormalities of these angles have been implicated in patella instability, anterior knee pain and patella complications after both total knee and patellofemoral arthroplasty.Objective: To measure the trochlea sulcus and lateral trochlea inclination angles on dried unpaired Kenyan femora.Methods: The angles were measured on end-on digital images of grossly normal femora using an open source image analysis software, ImageJ®. Measures of central tendency were calculated.Results: Average trochlea sulcus and lateral trochlea inclination angles were 1390 and 210 respectively. There was no significant difference between the angles in the right and left femora. There was a negative correlation between the sulcus and lateral trochlea inclination angles. These angles are comparable to values in other populations. Conclusion:Average sulcus angle in Kenyan femora is 139º and the average lateral trochlea inclination angle 210, with no significant difference between right and left sides. These can be used as guide when analyzing diagnostic images of the knee for patella instability.