Anatomical Variation of the Tibia – a Principal Component Analysis

Conventional anatomically contoured plates do not adequately fit most tibiae. This emphasizes the need for a more thorough morphological study. Statistical shape models are promising tools to display anatomical variations within a population. Herein, we aim to provide a better insight into the anatomical variations of the tibia and tibia plateau. Seventy-nine CT scans of tibiae were segmented, and a principal component analysis was performed. Five morphologically important parameters were measured on the 3D models of the mean tibial shapes as well as the −3SD and +3 SD tibial shapes of the first five components. Longer, wider tibiae are related to a more rounded course of the posterior column, a less prominent tip of the medial malleolus, and a more posteriorly directed fibular notch. Varus/valgus deformations and the angulation of the posterior tibia plateau represent only a small percentage of the total variation. Right and left tibiae are not always perfectly symmetrical, especially not at the level of the tibia plateau. The largest degree of anatomical variation of the tibia is found in its length and around the tibia plateau. Because of the large variation in the anatomy, a more patient-specific approach could improve implant fit, anatomical reduction, biomechanical stability and hardware-related complications.