The Development and Enhancement of a Forward Mathematical Model of the Human Knee Joint

Degenerative joint disease, or osteoarthritis, is a common occurrence in the knee joint. This can often result in joint pain, decrease in range of motion, and ultimately disability. One way to counteract osteoarthritis is the incorporation of a total knee arthroplasty (TKA). TKAs replace the damaged bone and soft tissue surrounding the knee with metal and polyethylene components. Ideally this will improve the joint’s performance and reduce pain. However, there is still a number of TKA patients who remain dissatisfied. In order to investigate this, in depth research must be done on the design and performance of TKAs.

One such way to analyze TKA performance is through mathematical modeling. Over the years a forward solution mathematical model of the knee has been developed by the Center of Musculoskeletal Research at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. The goal of this dissertation is to build upon and further advance this previously validated forward mathematical model of the knee. This is done by creating a patellofemoral contact detection system which allows for a medial/lateral contact area split in deep flexion, developing a contact mapping algorithm which can utilize modeling results to calculate contact areas and contact stresses, and incorporating a gait activity into the model which assesses kinetics and kinematics during the stance phase of gait. This dissertation also seeks to incorporate new implant types into the model including revision TKAs and unicompartmental knee arthroplasties. Overall, utilizing the model’s new capabilities allows researchers to explore various aspects of TKA design and the effects that change may have on contact mechanics and soft tissue forces.