Analysis of the Relationship between the Angular Characteristics of the Femur and the Dimensions of the Intercondylar Fossa

Introduction: It has been reported in the literature that when the intercondylar fossa (ICF) is narrow, injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) are common and the risk of osteoarthritis increases. In addition, the ICF has been reported to have some advantages in determining the depth of distal femoral resection in total knee arthroplasty. The aim of this study was to investigate whether femoral angular characteristics, which influence hip and knee joint kinematics, affect ICF dimensions. Materials and Methods: This study was performed on 74 dry femurs, 36 right and 38 left. Angular parameters were measured on digital images using ImageJ. The ICF parameters were measured using a digital caliper. Results: The anatomic lateral distal femoral angle and mechanic lateral distal femoral angle were found to be greater on the left side. A positive correlation was found between both anatomic lateral distal femoral angle and mechanic lateral distal femoral angle and ICF width on the right side and in all cases. A positive correlation was found between the anterior femoral bowing angle (AFBA) and ICF width on the right side. Conclusion: As a result, low anatomic lateral distal femoral angle, mechanic lateral distal femoral angle, and AFBA may lead to a narrower ICF, which may predispose to ACL injury and osteoarthritis. The results of this study may help orthopedic surgeons in knee surgery and cruciate ligament reconstruction.