Two-type classification system for femoral trochlear dysplasia in recurrent patellar instability based on three-dimensional morphology

Abstract

Purpose: Radiographic and two-dimensional (2D) CT/MRI analysis of femoral trochlear dysplasia play a significant role in surgical decision-making for recurrent patellar instability. However, the three-dimensional morphology of dysplastic trochlea is rarely studied due to the limitations of conventional imaging modalities. This study aimed to (1) develop a 3D morphological classification for trochlear dysplasia based on the concavity of the trochlear groove and (2) analyze the interrater reliability of the classification system.

Methods: The 3D trochleae of 132 knees with trochlear dysplasia and recurrent patellar instability were reconstructed using CT scan data and classified using the innovative classification criteria between January 2016 and June 2020. A concave trochlear sulcus with sloped medial and lateral trochlear facets was classified as Type I trochlea. The trochlear groove with no concavity is classified as Type II. Furthermore, in Type II, the trochlea with the elevated trochlear floor at the proximal part was identified as IIa and the trochlea with the hypoplastic trochlear facets as IIb. The intra- and inter-rater reliability was examined using kappa (κ) statistics.

Results: The 3D classification system showed substantial intra-rater agreement and moderate interrater agreement (0.581 ~ 0.772). The intra- and interrater agreement of Dejour's four-grade classification was fair-to-moderate (0.332 ~ 0.633). Eighty-one trochleae with concave trochlear sulcus were classified as Type I, and fifty-one without concavity as Type II. Twenty-five non-concave trochleae were classified as type IIa due to the elevated trochlear floor and 26 trochleae into IIb with the hypoplasia of trochlear facets.

Conclusion: This study developed a 3D classification system to classify trochlear dysplasia according to trochlear concavity and morphology of the trochlear facets. On CT/MRI scans or 3D reconstructions, the interpretation of features of dysplastic trochleae may vary, especially for the flat and convex trochleae. The novel system provides morphological evidence for when to consider trochleoplasty according to the different types of trochlear sulcus.

Keywords: Classification system; Morphology; Recurrent patellar instability; Three-dimensional reconstruction; Trochlear dysplasia.