Dick Watkins
President
First Edition May 1993
Revised december 1993; May 1994; July 1994; October 1994
MEDmetric® Corporation, 7542 Trade Street, San Diego,
California 92121-2412
Copyright
The KT1000, first introduced in 1982, is the product of research and development beginning prior to 1979. Orthopedic surgeon Dale M. Daniel, M.D., devised schemes for instrumenting knee articulation and, with the collaboration of MEDmetric® founder Lawrence L. Malcom, Ph.D., developed three distinct prototypical models which evolved finally to the portable form of the instrument as it exists today.
Design improvements are continually incorporated which enhance the accuracy, reliability and durability of the KT devices. As significant improvements or new features are developed, you will be notified and given the opportunity to upgrade your instrument. Your KT device need never be obsolete.
Although the ARTHROMETER® is easy to use and examinations may be performed quickly, a reliable and reproducible technique, requiring study and practice, must be developed. A modest commitment of time is needed to acquire a further understanding of knee mechanics and to develop a good testing procedure. The support materials supplied are intended to assist examiners in their efforts. Please review these carefully. Regional Knee Ligament ARTHROMETER® workshops are conducted from time to time; we encourage you to attend if possible. Alternatively, we suggest that you network with KT device users in your area and spend time with examiners who have a developed technique. MEDmetric® Corporation phone support is also available for your convenience.
We are very interested in your comments regarding the Knee Ligament
ARTHROMETER® and its use. Your observations may guide us
in producing a design enhancement which will improve performance of the
instrument. Please address all correspondence to:
MEDmetric® Corporation
7542 Trade Street
San Diego, California 92121-2412
Phone: (858) 536-9122 or (800) 995-6066;
fax: (858) 536-9303; e-mail: info@medmetric.com
Dick Watkins
President
§ There is no anesthesia risk.
§ The patient undergoes no x-ray exposure.
§ Due to patient comfort, there is minimal muscle guarding.
§ It is inexpensive when compared to x-ray, MRI or CT scan testing.
Since the Knee Ligament ARTHROMETER® was designed for the orthopedic practitioner, the instrument allows the examiner easily to screen acute knee injuries and quantitatively document anterior-posterior knee measurability in the office or clinical setting.
§ Hall Effect Retrofit (ARTHROMETERs® with serial numbers below 186). The earliest KT models required periodic adjustment or recalibration of force tones. The Hall Effect Retrofit eliminated the need for scheduled service.
§ Thigh Strap (KT serial number 200). The strap was introduced to resist external limb rotation during ACL testing at 20° to 35° of flexion.
§ 30 lb. Force Tone. The original KT1000 design incorporated two anterior force levels: 15 lbs. and 20 lbs. A 30 lb. force tone was later incorporated to add test sensitivity for well muscled or large patients.
§ Adjustable Thigh Support. The thigh support for current production ARTHROMETERs® is adjustable in three steps for short, medium and tall subjects. The new thigh support is MRI safe since it has no metal components.
§ Posterior Force Tones. KT2000 (serial number 455 and higher) and the newest KT1000 units emit force tones when 15, 20, and 30 pounds of force is applied posteriorly. Earlier KT1000 devices featured posterior force tones at 15 and 20 pounds; previous KT2000 units enunciated a tone at 20 pounds of posterior force only.
§ Instructional Video. The video accompanying the ARTHROMETER® has been updated (© 1991).
§ X-Y Plotter. The KT2000 X-Y plotter has been upgraded.
§ Force Tone Shutdown. When batteries are weak, new KT2000 units (Serial Number 327 and higher) cease enunciating force tones. This is an indication that batteries must be changed in order to maintain plotter/computer output accuracy.
Factory installed retrofits and upgrades are available for all Knee Ligament ARTHROMETERs®. To find the serial number of your KT, examine the metal plate affixed to the bottom of your Knee Ligament ARTHROMETER®.
NOTE: ARTHROMETER®, KT1000, KT2000 and MEDmetric®
are trademarks of MEDmetric® Corporation. Utility and methods employed
in the design and use of the MEDmetric® Knee Ligament ARTHROMETER®
(Models KT1000 and KT2000) are protected by U.S. Patent 4,583,555. All
rights strictly reserved
We ask only that you provide us with the cause of your dissatisfaction in writing and that you inform us of your intention prior to return of the instrument.
Shipping charges are the responsibility of the purchaser. In the event of returned equipment, your account will be credited with the purchase price and applicable sales taxes only. You will be billed for the shipping charges.
We feel that thirty (30) days of use is adequate to determine your acceptance of the instrument. Therefore, no extensions of the thirty (30) day satisfaction guarantee will be made, except by express written authorization.
Dick Watkins
President
A - Battery Compartment Door
B - Distal Velcro Strap
C - Proximal Velcro Strap
D - Force Handle
E - Displacement Dial
F - Patella Sensor Adjustment Dial
G - Patella Sensor Pad
H - Joint Line Arrow
I - Tibia Sensor Pad
Used on KT2000 devices made between 1992 and 1996
A - Power
B - Off-Chart-Pen Switch
C - "X" Adjustment Knob
D - "Y" Adjustment Knob
E - Pen
Current Version of KT2000 Data Graph
A - Power Pen Up/Down Lever
B - Paper Clamp
C - Pen
D - "X" Adjustment Knob
E - "Y" Adjustment Knob
ARTHROMETER®. MEDmetric® tibio-femoral joint displacement measuring instrument in two models, the KT1000 and KT2000.
compliance index. Tibial displacement occurring between two displacement forces during a continuous testing cycle.
compliance index difference (CID). The relative side-to-side difference in each patient's compliance index measurement.
corrected anterior displacement for the PCL injured knee. The passive anterior displacement minus the quadriceps active displacement when both are measured relative to the testing reference position at the quadriceps neutral angle.
corrected posterior displacement for the PCL injured knee. The passive posterior displacement plus the quadriceps active displacement measured relative to the testing reference position at the quadriceps neutral angle.
foot support. A support placed under both feet to establish symmetrical axial knee position before each test.
involved knee (I). The knee with the current injury or complaint of instability.
manual maximum displacement. The maximum anterior tibial displacement which can be produced by a high manual force applied to the proximal calf. Referred to as the "manual maximum drawer" in some literature.
non-involved knee (N). The knee of the patient opposite to the involved knee. If the non-involved knee is normal, measurements of the involved knee should be compared to the non-involved knee (I-N).
passive displacement. Tibial displacement when force is provided
by the examiner. Referred to as the `` passive drawer" in some literature.
quadriceps active displacement. Tibial displacement caused by
active contraction of the patient's quadriceps muscle.
quadriceps neutral angle (QNA). The flexion angle in a normal knee where there is no tibial movement either anterior or posterior during an active quadriceps contraction. The quadriceps neutral angle is approximately 70°, although the angle varies from patient to patient.
side-to-side difference. The relative measurement difference between a patient's two knees.
testing reference position. Tibio-femoral position in a relaxed patient after a 20 lb. posterior push has been applied and released.
thigh support. A platform placed under both thighs to maintain symmetrical knee flexion.
tibial sag screen. A quadriceps active displacement test at 90° of flexion. A normal knee moves slightly posterior .5 to 2 mm.
total anterior-posterior displacement. Total displacement resulting from a 20 lb. posterior push and a 30 lb. anterior pull.
The Knee Ligament ARTHROMETER® measures the relative motion between a patellar sensor pad and a tibial sensor pad. The ARTHROMETER® is secured to a patient's lower leg. When the force handle is pulled, the tibia displaces anteriorly and the KT indicates this motion in millimeters. When the handle is pushed, the tibia displaces posteriorly and the KT indicates posterior displacement. When the handle is released following a pull-push sequence, the tibia will return to the testing reference position.
In a normal knee, anterior force results in anterior displacement and internal rotation of the tibia; posterior force results in posterior displacement and external rotation of the tibia. These A-P displacements and rotations of the tibia are coupled behavior in the knee joint. When cruciate ligaments are torn, both displacement and rotation patterns of the tibia change. Cruciate ligament deficiency can be detected in most knees by comparative measurement of tibial displacement alone.
A Knee Ligament ARTHROMETER® examination sequence consists of tests to determine the integrity of the posterior cruciate ligament followed by tests to determine the integrity of the anterior cruciate ligament. With a relaxed, cooperative patient, an examiner experienced in the operation of the ARTHROMETER® can perform the entire series of exams in less than 10 minutes.
Generally, ARTHROMETER® exams consist of testing the
non-involved (or "normal") knee and repeating each test on the involved
(or injured) knee. A variation in measurements between the non-involved
and involved knees can indicate cruciate ligament disruption.
PCL Screen. The test series begins with a visual quadriceps active test with the patient's knee flexed to 90° followed by an instrumented exam at the same angle of flexion. When no posterior cruciate ligament disruption is indicated, the examiner proceeds to the ACL test cycle; when tests indicate a PCL disruption, tests at the quadriceps neutral angle are performed.
Testing for ACL and PCL in the PCL Deficient Knee. To quantify PCL disruption, you must first establish your patient's quadriceps neutral angle (QNA). This angle varies from patient to patient, but is approximately 70°. Once you have determined your patient's QNA, active tests (those involving patient muscle contraction) and passive tests (where the examiner applies pressure) will confirm and quantify PCL disruption. Passive displacement tests at the QNA can quantify ACL as well as PCL disruption.
ACL Testing. Tests for anterior cruciate ligament disruption are performed at between 20° and 35° of knee flexion. Three tests are performed at this angle: the passive displacement test (to test for ACL deficiencies); the manual maximum displacement test (endpoint measurement); and the quadriceps active test (to measure tibial displacement with a quadriceps muscle contraction). In addition, a "compliance index" (the difference between readings at different force levels) can quantify the feeling of a "soft endpoint" which is often observed after an ACL disruption. Note: Only the compliance index can be used for ACL testing in the PCL deficient knee.
When retesting patients, examiners should refer to previous Patient Evaluation Forms and re-create the angles of flexion and heel position as recorded. The goniometer, an integral part of the ARTHROMETER® system, is designed for this. In the field, there ate two methods of using the goniometer. The first (and more precise) is to align the pivot point along the joint line, adjusting the arms of the goniometer with the femur and tibia. The second method is to place the goniometer on top of the patella, resting one arm on the tibial spine and the other on the anterior aspect of the thigh. Either method will work, but the same procedure must be employed by all examiners within a group to ensure valid test-retest results.
Other variables may affect results, including patient relaxation, ARTHROMETER® placement, consistent patella pad pressure and speed and vector of force application.. The development of a consistent and standardized testing.
Motion of the knee may be described in terms of rotations about or translations along some set of axes. "Rotation" refers to turning about an axis; "translation" is to slide along an axis, or more precisely, motion such that all lines in the body remain parallel to their original position. Conventionally, the axes are arranged to fit the "right hand rule" (that is, the X, Y and Z axes are arranged as the index finger, long finger and thumb of the right hand in the illustration). These translations and rotations are used to define motion. For example, motion along X is anteroposterior movement, along Y is medolateral inducement, and along Z is distraction or penetration of the femur. Tibia rotation about X is abduction or adduction, about Y is flexion-extension, and about Z is tibial rotation.
The ability to rotate or translate about a particular axis is called a "degree of freedom," but natural knee motions and the motions resulting from clinical laxity tests are not limited to one degree of freedom. For example, "knee flexion" during normal gait requires the knee to rotate about the medial/lateral (Y) axis, translate along and rotate about the anterior/posterior (X) axis and rotate about the proximal/distal (Z) axis (see illustration). A common way to think about how the knee flexes is to imagine the "axis of rotation" moving posteriorly. The location of this "axis" is often called the knee's "instant center".
Knee motions are not independent of one another. For example, when the knee moves into extension, the rotation of the tibia on the femur is coupled to the movement of extension by knee construction and by the way in which ligaments, tendons and bones share the applied loads.
When testing joints one must take care not to provide inappropriate
constraint. Joint laxity tests frequently focus on one motion. The constraint
of the testing system on associated (coupled) motions may have a major
effect on the movement being measured. For example, when performing the
20° anterior displacement test, if joint rotation is constrained by
the testing system, the tibia's anterior displacement will be significantly
diminished.
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Another example of coupled motion is the combined translation and rotation of the femur on the tibia as the knee flexes and extends. If the cruciate ligaments are approximately isometric (they do not stretch or shorten significantly as the knee bends) then the flexion angle determines the orientation of these ligaments. If one removes a constraint (for example, by cutting the anterior cruciate ligament) the coupling between the bones is changed. If one adds a constraint (a uni-axial brace) the coupling between the bones changes and new and different loads are applied to constraining structures. The components of the knee are linked by constraining and coupling structural components.
| Axis | Rotation Translation |
| Proximal-Distal
Medial-Lateral
Anterior-Posterior |
 |
The Cruciate Deficient Knee. While the knees' mechanisms are multi-dimensional, a cruciate ligament deficiency can be detected in most knees by tibial sagittal plane displacements alone. A significant difference is usually seen in force/displacement behavior between normal and cruciate deficient knees. In a normal knee, anterior force results in anterior displacement and internal rotation of the tibia; posterior force results in posterior displacement and external rotation of the tibia. Since the patellar tendon is oriented posteriorly, a quadriceps contraction will not result in an anterior tibial shift in a normal knee positioned at 90° (although there might be a slight posterior shift). On the other hand, a contraction of the quadriceps with a PCL deficient knee at 90° will result in an anterior shift of the tibia of 2 mm or more.
The Knee Ligament ARTHROMETER® measures the relative motion between the patella and tibia. The tibial rotation motion is unconstrained. The abnormal tibial rotation that results from a ruptured ACL is reflected in sagittal plane measurements.
Active Displacement. To generate sufficient torque to raise the foot, the patient contracts the quadriceps muscles. The quadriceps force acts on tibia through the patellar tendon. The patellar tendon force has two components: one compressing the joint surfaces together and one directed anteriorly. The anterior component acts to displace the tibia while the ACL acts as the primary restraint to its movement. When there is an ACL disruption, the anterior component may displace the tibia farther forward. For a more detailed discussion, see The Active Drawer, a booklet included with each ARTHROMETER®.
Quadriceps
Neutral Angle. At the quadriceps neutral angle, the relationship of
the tibia to the femur requires no cruciate restraints to the forward or
backward movement of the tibia. The quadriceps neutral angle ranges from
55° to 90° and in a non-involved knee it is that angle where a
quadriceps contraction does not produce either an anterior or posterior
tibial shift. After a PCL tear, gravity can displace the tibia and will
change the normal orientation of the patellar tendon. When the patient
contracts his quadriceps muscles during and active displacement test, the
patellar tendon force will have an anterior component which pulls the tibia
out of its posterior displaced position and up to the normal anatomical
position. The Knee Ligament ARTHROMETER® is used to measure
this posterior tibial sag in millimeters. This is done by measuring the
active displacement on the involved knee at the same flexion angle that
the non-involved knee was found to have no measurable displacement. Any
resulting anterior tibial shift on the involved knee at the same degree
of flexion is equal to the posterior tibial subluxation. For a more detailed
discussion, see The Quadriceps
Active Test, a booklet included with each ARTHROMETER®.
Goniometer.
Two plastic rulers joined by a rivet pivot to indicate the angle of knee
flexion. There are two principal methods of goniometer measurement. The
first is to align the pivot point with the knee's joint line and to adjust
one arm parallel to the femur and the other parallel to the tibia. The
second method is to place the goniometer on top of the patella with the
pivot aligned with the joint line; one arm rests on the anterior aspect
of the tibia, the other on the anterior aspect of the femur. Although the
first method is more precise, either will work. It is imperative, though,
that the same method be used each time to ensure test-retest repeatability.
Thigh Support Platform.
The adjustable platform is used to ensure uniform right-left and test-retest
angles of flexion in ACL displacement measurements. It is not used in PCL
tests either at 90° or the quadriceps neutral angle. To adjust the
height, pull on the platform's top casing; it will lock into one of three
elevations. At its lowest elevation, the platform will raise the thigh
11 cm from the examination table surface, at its highest elevation it will
raise the thigh 17.5 cm. Note: Early model KT1000 thigh support platforms
are not adjustable; to alter the elevation of one of these, place a board
or book under the platform.
Foot Support
Platform. When placed under both feet of the patient, this accessory
assures initial tibial rotation symmetry between both of the patient's
limbs during ACL displacement testing. It is not used in PCL tests either
at 90° or the quadriceps neutral angle. Position the patient's heels
on the platform with lateral malleoli just proximal to the upright; this
provides a restraint against the tendency for the patients entire leg to
rotate externally. When both feet are placed symmetrically in the
support, the starting rotation angle of each limb will be the same. The
foot support platform features a 10 cm ruler on either side; this corresponds
to the " heel position " line on the Patient Evaluation Form; the position
should be recorded at each test. Follow up tests should replicate
the angle of earlier exams to ensure validity of retest results.
Thigh Restraint Strap. A 7 cm Velcro strap is used to prevent
excessive external hip rotation during ACL displacement testing. It also
may be used in PCL tests either at 90° or the quadriceps neutral angle.
Place the strap around both the patient's legs at a level proximal to the
thigh support platform. Tighten the strap until it removes much of the
excessive external rotation when the feet are resting on the foot support
platform (the patella should be pointing up). The thigh support strap is
autoclaveable for intraoperative use. (Note: the KT1000 is not autoclaveable;
however, the KT1000 can be protected by means of a sterile bag).
1. Relax the Patient. The patient should lie supine,
with his hands at his side, on a comfortable, firm examining table. The
table should be long enough to support the patient's head and heels; the
patient's head should be comfortable, supported with the cushion of the
table or a pillow, his hands over his midsection and his eyes looking to
the ceiling. You may wish to use a modesty drape. (See
checklist )
2. Thigh Support Platform. Place thigh support platform
under both legs at a level proximal to the popliteal space. This platform
will keep the flexion angle of both knees symmetrical during testing. The
thigh support platform is adjustable, raising the thigh an additional 6.5
cm (earlier production models are not adjustable; place a board or book
under the platform to alter elevation). Elevating the thigh support
will increase the flexion angle. It is important to obtain an angle of
flexion which well establishes the patella in the trochlea. Patellar mobility
will produce test error.
3. Foot Support Platform. Place the foot support platform
under both feet of the patient at a level distal to the lateral malleolus.
The patient's heels should rest comfortably on the foot pad immediately
adjacent to lateral upright ends. Note: Some patients must be tested with
the heel resting on the foot pad at a distance in from the lateral uprights
to prevent excessive internal rotation of the knee. In these cases, draw
an imaginary line from the medial border of the foot down to the ruler
on the foot pad. Read the actual distance that both heels are from the
upright on the foot support's centimeter
scale; record readings on the Patient Evaluation Form.
4. Check Flexion Angle. Measure the angle of flexion
using the goniometer; if necessary, adjust thigh support platform so that
knee is between 20º and 35º of flexion. The knee must be flexed
sufficiently for the patella to engage the femoral trochlea. Record the
flexion angle on the Patient Evaluation Form.
5. Place Thigh Strap. Use the Velcro thigh strap
if there is an excess of hip external rotation (either naturally or in
the operating room when the patient is under general anesthesia). Place
strap so it resists external rotation on both legs equally, then tighten
until it removes much of the internal rotation torque on each knee when
feet are in the foot support.
6. Position the ARTHROMETER®. Secure the Knee
Ligament ARTHROMETER® on the anterior aspect of the tibia
so that the joint-line arrow aligns with the joint line of the knee; apply
the 
distal Velcro
strap (without over tightening, which may cause discomfort and interfere
with relaxation). Rotate the instrument so that pressure on the patella
pad stabilizes the patella. If the patella is unstable, elevate the thigh
support further to flex the knee and bring the patella down into the femoral
trochlea. Firmly secure the proximal Velcro strap.
7. Adjust ARTHROMETER®. Confirm that the joint
line arrow is at the level of the joint line and that pressure on the patella
stabilizes the patella in the femoral trochlea. To adjust the ARTHROMETER®
for patella height, loosen the patella sensor adjustment knob and position
the tibia and patella rails nearly parallel with one another; tighten the
knob. 
8. Manually Oscillate the Calf. Grasp the back of the
patient's proximal calf and gently but rapidly oscillate the tibia in an
anterior and posterior cycle several times; this will induce a relaxation
response in the muscles. When the ARTHROMETER® displacement needle
moves freely, the patient is relaxed.
9. Stabilize the Patella. Place one hand on the
thigh and the patella reference pad to stabilize the instrument. Push posteriorly
on the patella reference pad until there is no further movement on the
displacement dial. Maintain this pressure throughout the examination.
10. Position Tibia and Condition Tissue. Pull and then
push on the force handle (this will produce three anterior audio tones
when pulling and posterior tones when pushing); when the posterior tone
sounds, release the force. Repeat. This posterior push and release maneuver
is performed two or three times (until the displacement dial returns to
the same position).
11. Adjust Dial. While maintaining constant pressure on
the patella reference pad, rotate the displacement dial to align the needle
with zero.
The testing reference position is the zero position from which all other
measurements, posterior and anterior, will be made. Failure to establish
a repeatable testing reference testing position may indicate a lock of
patient cooperation (tense thighs, legs held together or rigid, tight patellar
tendon during manual palpitation).
A - Power
B - Off-Chart-Pen Switch
C - "X" Adjustment Knob
D - "Y" Adjustment Knob
E - Pen
1. Connect to ARTHROMETER®. Connect coiled cord to plotter's five-pin, circular connector and to the rear jack of the ARTHROMETER®.
2. Insert Patient Evaluation Form.
a. Move plotter's power switch (the red switch on the lower left corner on top of the plotter) to the "1" position.
b. Place a KT2000 Patient Evaluation Form on the plotting surface, grid side up with the lower edge of the form against the surface edge.
c. Move the Off-Chart-Pen switch to the "Chart" position. Make sure paper is on the plotting surface before switch is moved to "Chart;" retention force of the surface will be reduced if the plotter is on "Chart" without paper on this surface.
3. Drop the Plotter Pen. Depress the switch on either side of the Knee Ligament ARTHROMETER® force handle; the pen will remain in position as long as the switch is held.
4. Zero the Plotter. Push on the force handle until you hear the 20 lb. tone; release the force handle. The pen should return to the 0 force line on the graph paper. (If it does not, move the plotter pen up or down on the paper using the vertical adjustment knob on the upper right of the plotter until the pen drops directly onto the 0 force line). After the initial posterior push, you will have only 40 seconds to zero the plotter (the ARTHROMETER® turns itself off automatically). If necessary, give the unit another push to re-start it.
5. Place Pen in "Test" Position. Using the horizontal adjustment
knob, place the pen in the desired position to begin the force/displacement
curve. Each graph form has ample room for testing and comparing left and
right knees. Up to three curves on each knee (six total readings) may be
recorded on a single page.
A - Power Pen Up/Down Lever
B - Paper Clamp
C - Pen
D - "X" Adjustment Knob
E - "Y" Adjustment Knob
1. Connect to ARTHROMETER®. Connect coiled cord to plotter's five-pin, circular connector and to the rear jack of the ARTHROMETER®.
2. Insert Patient Evaluation Form.
a. Move plotter's power switch (the red switch on the lower left
corner on top of the plotter) to the "load"
position. This moves the pen-holder to the upper-right corner and releases
the right-hand paper clamp.
b. Release the left-side paper clamp by depressing the tabs.
Remove the stub or cardboard backing
remaining from the previous pad.
c. Lay the new pad on the surface and slide it well under the
right-side paper clamp. Depress the left-
side paper clamp and slide the new pad under it from right to left.
The pad should line up against the
left paper stop pin (under the left-side clamp) and the bottom edge
of the paper stop. Release the left-
side clamp. Smooth pad against surface by moving your hand from left
to right over the pad.
3. Drop the Plotter Pen. Move the plotter's operating switch to the Pen-Down position.
4. Zero the Plotter. Push on the force handle until you hear
the 20 lb. tone; release handle. The pen should return to the 0 force line
on the graph paper. (If it does not, move the plotter pen up or down on
the paper using the vertical adjustment knob on the upper right of the
plotter until the pen drops directly onto the
0 force line). After the initial posterior push, you will have only
40 seconds to zero the plotter (the ARTHROMETER® turns itself
off automatically). If necessary, give the unit another push to re-start
it.
5. Place Pen in "Test" Position. Using the horizontal adjustment knob, place the pen in the desired position to begin the force/displacement curve. Each graph form has ample room for testing and comparing left and right knees. Up to three curves on each knee (six total readings) may be recorded on a single page.
2. Establish the Testing Reference Position.
3. Maintain Pressure on the Patella Pad throughout Cycle.
4. Pull: smoothly and slowly through the force handle (with the pull in line with the handle shaft); tones will sound at 15 lbs., 20 lbs. and 30 lbs. of force. Do not exceed 30 lbs. of force.
Note: Excessive application of force beyond the 30 lb. anterior and 20 lb. posterior tones will result in patient guarding due to discomfort at contact points on the tibia and possible pain from excessive force.
5. Push: on the force handle until the 20 lb. posterior tone sounds. Do not exceed 20 lbs. of force.
6. Release Force Handle. The dial should return to "0", ±
0.5 mm. This indicates the orientation of the instrument is unchanged and
the patient has remained relaxed.
7. Record Readings. Record displacement readings at each tone on the Patient Evaluation Form.
8. Repeat (If Necessary). If the dial does not return to within
0.5 mm of zero, do not use measurements; re-establish testing reference
position and repeat cycle.
1. Set up Patient for ACL or PCL Tests.
2. Establish the Testing Reference Position.
3. Maintain Pressure on the Patella Pad throughout Cycle.
4. Zero Plotter. Adjust X-Y plotter to zero.
5. Pull: while depressing the pen button (in the force handle),pull smoothly and slowly through the force handle (with the pull in line with the handle shaft); tones will sound at 15 lbs., 20 lbs. and 30 lbs. of force. Do not exceed 30 lbs. of force.
6. Push: on the force handle until the 20 lb. posterior tone sounds. Do not exceed 20 lbs. of force.
Note: Excessive application of force beyond the 30 lb. anterior and 20 lb. posterior tones will result in patient guarding due to discomfort at contact points on the tibia and possible pain from excessive force.
7. Release Force Handle. While maintaining pressure on the pen
button, release posterior force; the 
dial
should return to "0", ± 0.5 mm. Remove pressure from the pen button.
(See
illustration).
8. Repeat (If Necessary). If the pen does not return to within 0.5 mm of zero, do not use measurements; re-establish testing reference position and repeat cycle.
9. Measure. Place the clear, plastic reticular scale on the plotter
graph. If the scale is missing, count vertical lines (from the zero reference
point); each line equals 1 mm. Displacement to the left of zero (or the
starting reference position) indicates posterior displacement; displacement
to the right indicates anterior displacement.
Push-Pull Testing Cycle (KT2000)
Note: The KT2000 has a specialized battery saving feature which automatically shuts off the ARTHROMETER® battery power after 40 seconds of inactivity. To re-start the ARTHROMETER® push on the force handle until you hear the posterior force tone; then continue with your tests.
1. Set up Patient for ACL or PCL Tests 
2. Establish the Testing Reference Position.
3. Maintain Pressure on the Patella Pad throughout Cycle.
4. Zero Plotter. Adjust X-Y plotter to zero.
5. Push. Push on the force tone handle until the posterior 20 lb. tone sounds. Depress button on force handle. Do not exceed 20 lbs. of force.
6. Pull. Pull forward on the force tone handle until the 30 lb. anterior tone sounds; release button to lift the plotter pen. Do not exceed 30 lbs. of force.
7. Push. Push posteriorly again until the 20 lb. posterior tone is heard; release the force handle while continuing to stabilize patella. The instrument should return to zero ± 0.5 mm; this confirms that the instrument testing reference position has not changed.
Note: Excessive application of force beyond the 30 lb. anterior and 20 lb. posterior tones will result in patient guarding due to discomfort at contact points on the tibia and possible pain from excessive force.
8. Measure. Place the clear, plastic reticular scale on the plotter graph. If the scale is missing, count vertical lines (from the zero reference point); each line equals 1 mm. Displacement to the left of zero (or the starting reference position) indicates posterior displacement; displacement to the right indicates anterior displacement.
1. Position Patient. Have patient lie supine on examining table. Have patient flex knee, keeping your eyes at the level of the flexed knee; rest one elbow on the table, using your hand to support the patient's thigh and to confirm that thigh muscles are relaxed. See pages 16 and 21.
2. Apply Force. Using the other hand, apply a brief posterior
force to the tibia and then lightly restrain the patient's foot. Ask patient,
"gently slide your foot down the table;" your hand on the foot will prevent
the leg from sliding. Anterior tibial displacement resulting from the quadriceps
contraction indicates that the PCL is disrupted. 
3. Quantify 90° Quadriceps Active Findings: This is a more sensitive test to screen for PCL disruption.
a. Set up Patient for PCL Testing.
b. Establish Testing Reference Position.
c. Test the Non-Involved Knee. Ask patient to "Gently try to slide your foot down the table;" note displacement on the dial. Apply a momentary 20 lb. posterior push on the force handle. The dial needle should return to zero ± 0.5 mm.
e. Interpreting Findings. Anterior movement of the tibia indicates an injury to the posterior cruciate ligament; posterior movement from 0.5 mm to 2 mm of the tibia indicates a normal knee.
4. Follow-up Testing. If the tibia moves anterior during quadriceps
active testing, perform further PCL tests at the quadriceps neutral angle.
If quad active tests do not indicate a PCL, perform ACL tests.
1. Set up Patient for PCL Testing.
2. Establish Testing Reference Position.
3. Establish the Quadriceps Neutral Angle on the Non-Involved Knee. Ask patient to "Gently try to slide your foot down the table" (while restraining the foot). Both the position of the foot and the flexion angle of the knee should remain constant. If there is more than 1 mm of deflection on the dial, adjust the knee flexion angle and repeat until the flexion angle is identified that has no more than 1 mm of tibial motion with the quadriceps active test. This is the quadriceps neutral angle (in studies, this angle has ranged from 55° to 85°). Measure the angle of the knee with the goniometer and record the quadriceps neutral angle on the Patient Evaluation Form.
4. Perform the Passive Displacement Test on the Non-Involved Knee. Perform the standard pull-push testing cycle. Record testing angle, 20 lb. anterior and 20 lb. posterior displacements on the Patient Evaluation Form.
5. Perform the Quadriceps Active Test on the Non-Involved Knee. Zero the ARTHROMETER® and have the patient slide the restrained foot forward; record the result on Patient Evaluation Form. The dial should read zero (at QNA).
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6. Perform the Passive Displacement Test of the Involved Knee. Perform the standard pull-push testing cycle. Record testing angle, 20 lb. anterior and 20 lb. posterior displacements on the Patient Evaluation Form.
7. Perform Quadriceps Active Test on the Involved Knee. Zero the ARTHROMETER® and have the patient slide the restrained foot forward; record result on Patient Evaluation Form.
8. Adjust Measurements. Normalize displacements to the quadriceps active position. The corrected anterior displacement is displacement anterior to the quadriceps active position (measured anterior displacement minus the quadriceps active displacement). The corrected posterior displacement is displacement posterior to the quadriceps active position (measured posterior displacement plus the quadriceps active displacement).
10. Interpret Data. A difference of 2 mm or greater usually indicates pathology.
11. Follow-up Testing. Proceed to ACL tests. Note: Only the compliance index passive displacement test may be used in the case of the PCL disrupted knee.
For further information on instrumented PCL testing, refer
to the video program, Instrumented Drawer Testing, or to the booklets,
The
Quadriceps Active Test, and, The Active Drawer Test. All are
included with the KT1000 and KT2000; additional copies are available
directly from MEDmetric® Corporation.
.
Quadriceps neutral angle test measurements and adjustments as recorded
on the Patient Evaluation Form (above) and the KT2000 X-Y plotter. Note
that in this case the quad neutral angle is at 70° of flexion; studies
have indicated quadriceps neutral angles ranging from 55° to 85°.
1. Set up Patient for ACL Testing.
2. Establish the Testing Reference Position.
3. Test the Non-Involved Knee. Mark the medial joint line; perform the standard pull-push test. Record measurements at 15 lbs., 20 lbs. and 30 lbs. of anterior force on the Patient Evaluation Form.
4. Test the Involved Knee. Support the involved knee at the non-involved knee test flexion angle; establish the testing reference position for 30º. Perform standard pull-push test; record 15 lb., 20 lb. and 30 lb. anterior displacements.
5. Interpreting Data. In most individuals, the measured difference
between knees is usually less than 3 mm.
The results of 30° passive displacement tests as recorded on the Patient Evaluation Form (above) and the X-Y plotter grid (left). The graph on the left describes the non-involved knee; the one on the right the involved knee.
6. Possible Inconsistencies. Force vectors, rotation of the ARTHROMETER® or parallax may create measurement inconsistencies. If measurements are inconsistent on the 30° tests, check the following:
a. Transient Muscle Guarding (Solution: Ensure patient is relaxed; manually oscillate calf to further relax muscles)
b. Variation in the Degree of Initial Tibial Rotation (Solution: Ensure test is started from same position of tibial rotation through use of the thigh strap)
c. Variation in Patella Pad Pressure (Solution: Check starting pad pressure; establish patella in trochlea)
d. Failure to "Zero" between Measurements. (Solution: Give a momentary posterior push to reset the tibia at the test reference position).
e. Inconsistent Knee Flexion Angle. (Solution: Compare angle on goniometer with previously recorded angle).
f. Skin "Bumping" Error. This may be a problem in an obese patient or one with mobile skin and soft tissue around the calf. (Solution: Slide proximal Velcro strap more distal - toward the foot).
g. General Anesthesia Effects in the O.R. (Solution: Lower foot
of the O.R. table to bring flexion angle closer to 35° for both knees;
this will guide the patella into the trochlear groove).
Note: See "Sources of Measurement Error"
7. Follow-up Testing. Compute the Compliance Index.
Subtract 15 lb. readings from 30 lb. readings.
The resulting measurements constitute the compliance index, the slope of the force-versus-displacement curve of the patient's knee between 15 lbs. and 30 lbs. of applied anterior force.
Proceed to the Quadriceps Active Test.
In determining the compliance index use data gathered
during passive displacement tests.
Purpose: To Measure tibial displacement with a quadriceps muscle contraction
1. Set up Patient for ACL Testing.
2. Establish the Testing Reference Position
3. Test the Non-Involved Knee. Ask patient to "Gently try to raise your foot off the table." Just as heel lifts, note displacement on the dial and record on the Patient Evaluation Form. Apply a momentary 20 lb. posterior push on the force handle. The dial needle should return to zero ± 0.5 mm This test may also be performed by a restraining hand on the ankle.
4. Test the Involved Knee. Repeat the sequence in Step 3 on the involved knee.
5. Interpret Results. A right/left difference of 3 mm probably indicates a pathology.
6. Follow-up Testing. Conduct manual maximum displacement test.
Quadriceps active test at 30° results on the Patient
Evaluation Form (above) and the KT2000 X-Y plotter (below)
Purpose: To obtain maximum displacement and quantify endpoints.
1. a. Set up Patient for ACL Testing.
b. Establish the Testing Reference Position.
2. Test Non-Involved Knee. Use one hand to stabilize patella; use the other to apply direct manual force to the back of the subject's calf, proximal to the instrument's Velcro straps. Read and record displacement from the dial.
3. Zero the ARTHROMETER®. Apply posterior force through the handle and release. The dial needle should return to zero ± 0.5 mm.
4. Test the Involved Knee. Repeat the sequence in Step 2 on the involved knee.
5. Interpreting Results. The Manual Maximum Displacement Test has been the most sensitive of the various tests. A right/left displacement measurement difference of 3 mm or more is indicative of an ACL disruption.
Manual maximum displacement testing as recorded on
the Patient Evaluation Form (above) and KT2000 X-Y plotter form (below).
1. Inadequate stabilization of the patella.
Stabilize patella by rotating limb to orient the patella anterior
(superior pole of the patella pointing up). This may require a thigh strap.
Support limb in sufficient knee flexion to engage patella in femoral trochlea.
This may require elevating the thigh support. Apply constant pressure on
the patella to seat it securely in the femoral trochlea.
2. Inadequate instrument stabilization.
Prevent the instrument from rotating during the test by using
the patella stabilization hand to steady the instrument about the tibial
axis. Keep the hand in contact with the thigh.
3. Incorrect placement of the ARTHROMETER®.
Confirm that the instrument joint line marker is on the joint
line.
4. Patella or tibia sensor rail motion limited by ARTHROMETER®
case.
Solution: Adjust the height of the patella sensor pad.
5. Inadequate patient relaxation.
Thigh muscles must be relaxed.
6. Incorrect direction of force application.
Force application should be in line with the force handle.
7. Soft tissue displacement of the tibia sensor pad.
On rare occasions in an obese patient, while an anterior force
is being applied the proximal Velcro strap will cause the subcutaneous
fat to displace anteriorly and lift up the tibial sensor pad. Applying
the proximal strap more distal may solve the problem.
8. Instrument malfunction.
Check calibration. (See Maintenance and Troubleshooting).
Daniel DM, Stone ML, Instrumented measurement of knee motion. In Daniel DM, Akesen WH, OConnor JJ, eds. Structure, Function, Injury and Repair. New York: Raven Press, 1990; 420-426.
Daniel DM, Sone ML, Barnett P, Sachs R. The use of the quadriceps active test to diagnose posterior cruciate ligament disruption and measure posterior laxity of the knee. J Bone Joint Surg 1985; 70A:386-391.
Daniel DM, Stone ML, Sachs, R, Malcom LL. Instrumented measurement of anterior knee laxity in patients with acute anterior cruciate ligament disruption. Am J Sports Med 1985; 13:401-407.
Daniel, DM, Stone, ML, Rannger C. Instrumented measurement of anterior-posterior knee motion. In Aichroth PM, Cannon WD, Jr., eds. Knee Surgery - Current Practice. London: Martin Dunitz Ltd., 1992: 191-205.
Using the KT1000/KT2000 ARTHROMETER® in the operating room, you can answer the following questions:
1. How much injured-to-normal difference was there pre-reconstruction?
2. How much was the displacement of the injured knee decreased
by reconstruction?
3. Has normal anterior stability been established?
If you plan to use your Knee Ligament ARTHROMETER® in the O.R., protect it from prep solution stains. Keep it out of the operative field and remember that it is an electronic device and cannot be sterilized. A specialized intra-operative Knee Ligament Arthrometer®, the KT1000/S, is now available.. The KT1000/S is a mechanical device which may be sterilized using any common method. Contact MEDmetric® at (800) 995-6066 for details.
Note: Post-operative testing and management of the patient in rehabilitation
should be undertaken under the direction of the operating surgeon.
Your Knee Ligament ARTHROMETER® does not need periodic servicing beyond the replacement of standard 9-volt batteries found in the rear of the ARTHROMETER®. A weakening of the beep tone is evident when the batteries are near discharge. Weakened batteries affect KT2000 plotter/computer output current. For this reason, force tones will cease altogether in the newest Models KT2000 (Serial Number 327 and higher) when batteries are weak. Replace batteries with equivalent alkaline 9-volt batteries such as Eveready, Duracel or Mallory. As the batteries weaken with use, you need not worry about the accuracy of your measurements since the Knee Ligament ARTHROMETER® automatically maintains calibration, even with a nearly dead battery. To conserve battery life, you will note that there is no separate on/off switch. As you apply an anterior or posterior force through the force handle, the battery is automatically switched on. When the instrument is not in use, the battery is automatically in the off mode. For this reason, when you store your ARTHROMETER®, be sure that the force handle is not depressed.
The Knee Ligament ARTHROMETER® will not need maintenance except as a consequence of component failure or damage. Note the case is factory sealed and cannot be opened in the field without causing internal damage. There are no user-serviceable parts or adjustments in the KT1000 or KT2000. Should it need repair, the instrument should be returned, along with its carrying case and accessories, to:
MEDmetric® Corporation
7542 Trade Street
San Diego, California 92122-2412.
It is in both our interests that your unit provide trouble-free operation;
we will promptly perform any necessary repairs and return the unit to you
(see warranty information for further details).
One final tip to extend the life of your instrument: Always keep and
use the ARTHROMETER® in a clean, dust-free environment, away from all
fluids (such as prep solutions, alkaline and cleansing compounds). Also,
keep your KT out of direct sunlight; extreme heat may warp the case.
1. Set the weights at 15 lbs. greater than the weight of the KT.
2. Push on the handle until the first tone is heard.
3. The scale should indicate 15 (± 1.5) lbs. [6.8 (± .68) kg].*
4. Set the weights at 20 lbs. greater than the weight of the KT.
5. Push the handle until the second force tone is heard.
6. The scale should indicate 20 (± 2.0) lbs. [9.1 (± .91) kg].
If using a scale:
1. Zero the scale to adjust for the weight of the KT.
2. Push on the handle until the initial tone is heard.
3. The scale should indicate 15 (± 1.5) lbs. [6.8 (± .68) kg).*
4. Continue to push on the handle until the second force tone is heard.
5. The scale should indicate 20 (± 2.0) lbs. [9.1 (± .91) kg].
1. Hold the instrument on a table or similar flat surface.
2. Hook the fish scale under the handle at the shaft. Restrain the instrument by placing one hand on top of ARTHROMETER® to provide counter-force.
3. Apply upward force until the first force tone is heard.
4. The scale should indicate 15 (± 1.5) lbs [6.8 (± .68) kg].
5. Continue to apply anterior force until the second tone is heard.
6. The scale should indicate 20 (± 2.0) lbs. [9.1 (± .91) kg].
7. Continue to apply anterior force until the third tone is heard.
8. The scale should indicate 30 (± 3.0) lbs. [13.6 (± 1.4) kg].
* The KT2000 has no 15 lb. posterior tone.
A - Goniometer included with Arthrometer®
B - Set pad flat on level surface
C - Fold Back Straps
Zero Dial by Rotating Bezel
2. Momentarily press the button on the ARTHROMETER® force handle as you pull; release button. Depress and release the button when the 15, 20 and 30 lb. anterior beeps sound.
3. Momentarily press the button on the force handle as you push; depress and release button when the 20 lb. posterior beep sounds.
The graph paper should have pen marks at the coordinates corresponding
to the anterior and posterior beeps. Each graphic mark should be ±10%
of applied force (i.e., ±2 lbs. posterior and ±1.5 lbs.,
±2 lbs. and ±3 lbs. posterior).
2. Lift on the arm connecting the patella pad to the ARTHROMETER®. When the dial reaches 5 mm, 10 mm and 15 mm of displacement, momentarily press (then release) the button on the force handle.
3. Lift the shorter arm (to the tibial pad). When the dial reaches 5 mm, 10 mm and 15 mm of displacement, press and release the button on the force handle.
The graph paper should have pen marks at the coordinates corresponding to 5 mm, 10 mm and 15 mm from the 0 position. Each graphic marks should be ±0.5 mm of applied displacement.
Cleaning the Electrostatic Paper Holder. Use lint free
tissue (such as Kim wipes) and an anti-static, conductive cleaner (such
as that made by Chemtronics). Moisten surface and wipe.
Fuse Replacement. Find the knob which corresponds to power (110v/220v);
turn it counterclockwise. The knob doubles as a cover for the fuse.
Replace with a ULG/6.3 f x 32 mm fuse (outside the U.S., specifications
may vary; consult your X-Y plotter user's guide for complete information)
.
Pen Replacement. The pen slides in and out of its holder; insert the cartridge with the point down and slide in until you hear a gentle click..
Power. Always turn off the power to the X-Y plotter when it is
not in use (prolonged running may hamper effectiveness of electrostatic
paper holder).
This warranty is limited to the original purchaser.
MEDmetric® products are warranted by MEDmetric® Corporation
to the original purchaser to be free from defects in materials and workmanship
for a period of one (1) year from the date of purchase. MEDmetric®
agrees within this warranty period to replace or repair, at MEDmetrics
option and without cost to the purchaser, any part or parts, returned to
MEDmetric®, with transportation charges prepaid, which upon MEDmetrics
examination discloses to have been defective as a result of defects in
materials and/or workmanship. In no event shall MEDmetric® be held
liable for transportation expenses or any expense other than the cost of
service, repair or replacement of defective parts in accordance with
provisions of this warranty. Warranty services may be arranged by contacting:
MEDmetric® Corporation
7542 Trade Street
San Diego, California 92121-2412
Telephone: (858) 536-9122 or (800) 995-6066;
fax: (858) 536-9303, e-mail: info@medmetric.com
Misuse, abuse, neglect or unauthorized repairs or alterations shall void this warranty.
No implied warranties of any nature whatsoever expressly including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular use, shall exceed the duration of this express warranty. It being recognized that the one (1) year period from the date of purchase is a reasonable warranty period for inspection of the products to allow determination as to whether there are defects in material and workmanship, and that the warranty period is a reasonable period for such an implied warranty to exist.
MEDmetric® shall not be liable for incidental or consequential damages of any nature, and MEDmetrics® sole liability shall be for the repair or replacement of defective parts pursuant to this warranty.
MEDmetric® will not be liable for commitments or agreements made by any of its employees, agents or dealers not in compliance with this warranty. This warranty is expressly in lieu of any other warranty, express or implied. This warranty gives specific legal rights to the purchaser of MEDmetrics® products covered hereby. Purchasers may also have legal rights which vary from state to state.
Terms. All invoices are due and payable thirty (30) days from date of shipment unless otherwise indicated.
Prices. Orders will be priced at the prices in effect at the date of the order. Prices are subject to change without notice.
Deliveries. Promises of shipments are estimated as closely as possible. Our Traffic Department cooperates fully in obtaining the best service from the transportation companies, and we always use our best efforts to ship within the time promised. However, we cannot always guarantee delivery dates. Unless otherwise agreed, all merchandise is F.O.B. our factory. Special shipping requests are subject to additional charges.
Returns. Merchandise may not be returned without our prior consent.
Warranty. All products manufactured by MEDmetric® Corporation are warranted exclusively in accordance with our limited warranty.
Product Changes. We reserve the right to redesign, alter or modify our products without incurring any liability whatsoever to any prior buyer of our products.
Product Specifications. All products supplied by us are designed to perform in accordance with specifications that are available from us and should be consulted prior to use. If you are in doubt, please consult our Engineering Department.
Attorney's Fees and Costs. If any acknowledgments at law or inequity
is necessary to enforce or interpret the Terms of Purchase and Sale contract
which becomes mutually binding upon our acceptance of your order, subject
to the terms and conditions of sale herein, the prevailing party shall
be entitled to reasonable attorneys fees, costs and necessary disbursements
in addition to any other relieve to which he may be entitled.
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Side to Side Difference (mm) |
Side To Side Difference (mm) |
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Side to Side Difference variation (mm)
Test-retest variation of each subject's side to side difference (30º/20 lb. passive anterior displacement). Each subject was tested five times by a single examiner.
Also tested, but not shown here, was the effect of an experimentally induced knee effusion on KT1000 measurement accuracy. This was done in cadavers by injecting saline fluid under pressure during instrumented testing. The pressurized saline simulation of a tens hemarthrosis or effusion showed that the instrumented displacement measurement could be made to increase by 1 mm to 2 mm unless increased posterior pressure was maintained upon the patellar reference pad to keep the patella seated upon the femoral notch during the test.
Cadaver testing of the clinical knee ligament instrument for accuracy
and repeatability was performed. The direct skeletal displacements in the
cadaver leg were monitored through pins placed in the femur and the tibia.
The statistical correlation coefficient (r=0.979) showed good agreement
between instrument measurements and actual motions. The average arithmetic
error was 0.16 mm (± 0.44 mm).
 |
 |
Histogram shows how the average absolute error was distributed over a range of skeletal displacements from 1 to 10 mm. The average absolute error for all 34 measurements was 0.39 mm (± 0.25 mm). The magnitude of the absolute error was relatively independent of the size of the 20° anterior drawer (Lachman test). |
KT1000 readings against actual skeletal displacements as measured through Steinman pins placed in the femur and tibia. The correlation coefficient for the instrumented versus known skeletal displacement was very high (r=0.979). The small errors, due probably to soft tissue compliance, were randomly distributed about the true mean relationship between the instrumented and known tibial displacements |
Interface Cord Color Code
1. Orange: Force
2. Black: Common
3. Red: Displacement
4. White: Pen down switch terminal for X-Y plotter
5. Green: Pen down switch terminal for X-Y plotter
6. Silver: Shield
