Selection of Surface Points to define the Orientation of the Tibial Plateau

When resurfacing the tibia, axial and sagittal alignment is achieved with reference to the long axis of the tibia. This is not without problems in cases of previous tibial trauma or skeletal deformity. Alternative approaches to achieving appropriate three-dimensional alignment could include the use of the tibial plateau rim and/or the proximal tibial surface. However, the repeatability of this is uncertain. The objective of the present work was to determine whether or not there is a difference in orientation of a best-fit plane on the tibial plateau when only points on the outer rim are selected as compared to points on the outer rim and on the proximal surface itself.