What professional planning software should actually do
Knee planning requires projection-specific reasoning. A short AP knee image can support component templating, while mechanical-axis planning requires a standardized long-leg image and tibial slope requires a reliable lateral projection. These questions should not be mixed into one generic measurement workflow.
OrthoMetiQ separates frontal TKA planning and lateral tibial-slope assessment so that measurements remain connected to the projection that actually supports them.
Questions the workflow must answer
- Which image answers component sizing and which answers alignment?
- Are hip, knee and ankle visible for mechanical-axis analysis?
- Which femoral and tibial references define the planned resections?
- Is component size compatible with bone width and overhang?
- Is sagittal slope assessed on a true lateral projection?
A traceable planning workflow
- 01
Image set review
Separate AP knee, long-leg and lateral data according to their intended planning purpose.
- 02
Axis landmarks
Identify hip center, knee center and ankle center on a standardized weight-bearing image.
- 03
Resection references
Define distal femoral and proximal tibial planning references before selecting components.
- 04
Component templating
Assess width, position, coverage and the relationship to planned resections.
- 05
Sagittal review
Use a dedicated lateral workflow for tibial slope instead of projecting frontal assumptions into the sagittal plane.
- 06
Report
Document axes, planned components, resections and any image limitations.
Useful planning outputs
- Mechanical-axis assessment
- Femoral and tibial component estimates
- Resection planning values
- Tibial slope measurement
- TKA planning report
Typical quality limits
- Long-leg image without complete hip or ankle
- Non-weight-bearing acquisition for a load-axis question
- Rotation that distorts condylar or plateau width
- Mixing short-image and long-leg scale assumptions
- Treating templated size as final without intraoperative verification
Frequently asked questions
Which image is used for alignment analysis?
Mechanical-axis analysis generally requires a standardized weight-bearing long-leg radiograph showing the hip center, knee and ankle.
What is tibial slope?
Tibial slope is the sagittal inclination of the tibial plateau and is assessed on a suitable lateral radiograph.
Which values matter in TKA planning?
Depending on the workflow: mechanical alignment, resection levels, component width, overhang, position, rotation reference and anticipated implant size.
Why assess AP and lateral views separately?
Frontal and sagittal planes answer different planning questions. Clear separation prevents measurements or projections from being mixed.