Direct Validation of Human Knee-joint Contact Mechanics Derived From Subject-specific Finite-element Models of the Tibiofemoral and Patellofemoral Joints.

Abstract

The primary aim of this study was to validate predictions of human knee-joint contact mechanics derived from finite-element models of the tibiofemoral and patellofemoral joints (specifically, contact pressure, contact area and contact force) against corresponding measurements obtained in vitro during simulated weight-bearing activity. A secondary aim was to perform sensitivity analyses of the model calculations to identify those parameters that most significantly affect model predictions of joint contact pressure, area and force. Joint pressures in the medial and lateral compartments of the tibiofemoral and patellofemoral joints were measured in vitro during two simulated weight-bearing acti..