Gait analysis in hip and knee surgery

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Objective gait analysis is crucial for evaluating locomotor function.
• Computerized systems enhance the precision and reliability of gait measurements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a computerized objective gait analysis method.
• To assess the reliability and reproducibility of the method.
• To correlate gait variables with clinical findings in patients undergoing orthopedic procedures.

Main Methods:

• Utilized two five-meter force plates for multi-step analysis.
• Integrated additional equipment and computerized the entire system.
• Measured time, distance, ground reaction forces, and sagittal joint movements (hip/knee).

Main Results:

• Maximal vertical force and average velocity were most sensitive to ambulatory status changes.
• These variables distinguished between cemented and non-cemented total hip replacement (THR) methods.
• Strong correlations were observed between objective gait variables and clinical assessments.

Conclusions:

• The computerized gait analysis system offers high reliability and reproducibility.
• Objective gait analysis is valuable for evaluating locomotor function post-surgery.
• Maximal vertical force and average velocity are key metrics for assessing surgical outcomes in hip and knee replacements.