The Determination of Ligament Strain by a Computer Controlled Knee Loading Apparatus

Abstract

Due to the incongruity of the human knee joint surfaces its ligamentous structures are the most important factor concerning the joint kinematics and stability. So insufficient repair after ligament injuries can cause chronical joint instabilities followed by posttraumatic arthrosis. Such instabilities can be treated by implantation of artificial ligaments as there are several types available on the market. They all differ in material and structure and thus in their mechanical properties. To figure out the required properties of such a ligament prosthesis thorough knowledge of biomechanics of the knee ligaments is needed, additionally this knowledge is necessary for an optimised rehabilitation of knee joints after surgery.