TECHNICAL REPORT - RADIOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF PATELLAR MALALIGNMENT USING A NEW FRAME FOR AXIAL IMAGING OF THE PATELLAE

Axial radiographs were performed on 59 children and adolescent patient s with patellar malalignment using the method described by Laurin. A s pecial frame was used to keep the knees in 20 degrees flexion and to m aintain standard conditions. Radiological indites were measured before realignment surgery. A statistically significant difference (P < 0.00 01) in the lateral patellofemoral angle was observed comparing malalig ned and control patellae. Laurin's technique using a special frame pro vides a method of obtaining standard radiological measurements of pate llar malalignment for use in surgical planning.