Published in:
01-08-2021 | Computed Tomography | Original Article
A standardised computed tomography measurement method for distal fibular rotation
Published in: European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery | Issue 4/2021
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Purpose
The aim of the study is to identify an ideal location to measure fibular rotation in the ankle joint using axial computed tomography (CT) scans. Another objective was to detect the average fibular rotation in the uninjured ankle joint in a large cohort.
Methods
Standardised axial CT with coronal/sagittal reconstructions was performed in healthy ankle joints. Three investigators performed the measurements. In the axial view, each investigator appointed the ideal location to measure the angle of fibular rotation with the use of reference lines either 4, 6, 8 or 10 mm distal from the talar joint line. Inter- and intraobserver reliability, as well as the intraclass correlation coefficient, were determined.
Results
CT scans of one hundred individuals—78 males and 22 females—were analysed. The most common locations for measuring the fibular rotation were in 31% of cases 4 mm and in 51% of cases 6 mm distal the talar joint line. The external rotation of the fibula averaged 8.42° ± 4.86° (range 0°–26°). The intraclass coefficient correlations (ICC) for interrater and intrarater reliability were 0.75.
Conclusions
The results of the study demonstrate a reproducible location to measure the fibular rotation in the ankle joint. The most convenient location to measure fibular rotation with a high reliability was 6 mm distal to the talar joint line.