The Distance between Tibial Tubercle and Trochlear Groove Correlates with Knee Articular Torsion

Abstract

This study aims to correlate the tibial tubercle to trochlear groove (TT-TG) distance with knee axial alignment. The hypothesis is that as internal torsion of the distal femur or external torsion of the proximal tibial increases, the TT-TG distance increases. We designed a cross-sectional study approved by our institutional ethics review board. We reviewed 32 computed tomography angiographies of patients that have nonjoint or bone-related symptoms. Distal femoral torsion, proximal tibial torsion, knee articular torsion (AT), and TT-TG distance were measured. A regression analysis between the TT-TG distance and the AT was performed. A positive correlation between the TT-TG distance and the AT was found. An increase in external torsion of the proximal tibial or an increase in internal torsion of the distal femur increases the TT-TG distance. For a correct interpretation of the TT to trochlear groove distance, we propose that the axial alignment should be included in the regular analysis of patellofemoral disease.