Morphological and mechanical analysis of the glenoid by 3D geometric reconstruction using computed tomography.

Abstract

To provide a morphological and mechanical analysis of the glenoid by 3D geometric reconstruction using computed tomography. For patients with different pathologies (Group A=control group, Group B=primary osteoarthritis, Group C=rheumatoid arthritis), the variation in shape of the scapula was characterized by measuring the glenoid version (beta). Mapping the computed tomography number and its 3D variation in the bone as a finite element structure. In Group A, the mean value of version was 17 degrees (range 12-22 degrees ). In Groups B and C the mean value of version were 27 degrees (range 4-48 degrees ) and 31 degrees (range 25-31 degrees ) of retroversion. At the center of the glenoid there was a homogeneous area of bony tissue with low computed tomography values and the subchondral bone could be clearly identified. For Group B patients, the computed tomography values were increased at the posterior margin of the glenoid, with a thickening of the posterior area acting as a strengthening column. For the Group C patients, the anatomical modifications were not reproducible between two cases examined. Results reveal a great difference between a healthy and a pathological glenoid. RelevanceThe method will be the basis for future study of the pathological characteristics of the joint. Results should provide a new pre-operative insight to help guide the surgeon.