Variability and repeatability of the flexion axis at the ulnohumeral joint

Abstract

Previous investigations have implemented screw displacement axes (SDAs) to define the elbow flexion axis for proper positioning of dynamic external fixators and endoprostheses. However, results across studies vary, which may be attributed to forearm position (pronation–supination) during elbow motion, or the mode of loading (active/passive) employed to generate flexion. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the influence of the flexion mode employed and forearm position on individual variation and repeatability of SDAs throughout elbow flexion. With the forearm pronated, the location of the average SDA was similar whether elbow flexion was generated actively or passively. In contrast, with the forearm supinated, the average SDA was 2.4° and 1.4° more valgus ( p<0.001) and internally rotated ( p<0.001), respectively, and positioned 1.6 and 0.8 mm further proximally ( p=0.002) and anteriorly ( p=0.005) relative to the capitellum, respectively, during active compared to passive flexion. During active flexion, the location of the average SDA was independent of forearm position. Conversely, during passive flexion, the average SDA angle was 3.4° and 1.0° more valgus ( p<0.001) and internally rotated ( p=0.009), respectively, and 1.7 and 0.7 mm more proximal ( p<0.001) and anterior ( p=0.001) relative to the capitellum, respectively, with the forearm held pronated rather than supinated. SDAs calculated throughout flexion deviated from the average SDA in both orientation and position, demonstrating that elbow flexion behaves similar to a loose hinge joint. These factors suggest that to encompass the location of all SDAs throughout flexion, and therefore properly mimic normal elbow joint motion, an endoprosthesis should be modeled similar to a “loose” rather than “pure” hinge joint. This would allow for dependencies of SDA angulation on forearm position and muscle activation, and slight freedom of movement to account for variances in SDA location. These factors should also be considered during soft-tissue reconstructions.