Comparison of knee cruciate ligaments models using in-vivo step up-down kinematics

The knee joint is a key structure of the human locomotor system. Any lesion or pathology compromising its mobility and stability alters its function. As direct measurements of the contribution of each anatomical structure to the joint function are not viable, modelling techniques must be applied. The present study is aimed at comparing cruciate ligaments models of different complexity using accurate parameters from MRI and 3D-fluoroscopy of a single selected subject during step up-down motor task. The complexity of the model was not very relevant for the calculation of the strain range of the cruciate ligaments fibres. On the other hand, three-dimensionality and anatomical twist of the modelled fibres resulted to be fundamental for the geometrical strain distribution over the ligament section.