Validation of a new protocol for navigated intraoperative assessment of knee kinematics

Abstract Background : This study describes a novel method for accurate evaluations of knee kinematics during arthroscopic reconstructions of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Methods : Quantitative evaluation of knee stability was estimated by experimental validation on 30 volunteers and by statistical analysis of test repeatability. Results : Proposed method present short learning time, is minimally invasive and thus suitable for arthroscopic techniques. Computed laxity showed a repeatability of 1.5° for varus–valgus, 3° for internal–external, and 2 mm for antero–posterior tests. Conclusions : This method represents a reliable quantification of knee kinematics in surgery, able to improve present intra-operative assessment of knee stability.