scholarly journals Standardized Three-Dimensional Lateral Distraction Test: Its Reliability to Assess Medial Canthal Tendon Laxity

Author(s):  
Xiaoyi Hou ◽  
Alexander C. Rokohl ◽  
Marius M. Meinke ◽  
Jinhua Liu ◽  
Senmao Li ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Assessment of MCT laxity is critical to the surgery options. Our study aimed to analyze the reliability of measuring medial canthal tendon (MCT) laxity by using a novel standardized three-dimensional lateral distraction test (3D-LDT). Methods Forty-eight Caucasian volunteers (25 males and 23 females, 96 eyes) between 22 and 84 years of age (55.6 ± 18.6 years old) were included in our study. From a neutral position, the lower eyelid was gently pulled laterally along a horizontal line to define the most distracted position of the lower punctum. Both in the neutral and distracted position, standardized 3D images were acquired for each subject by two observers, and each image were measured twice by two raters. Four landmarks and six corresponding linear measurements were evaluated for intra-rater, inter-rater, and inter-method reliability. Results Intra-rater, inter-rater and inter-method reliability analyses of 3D-LDT revealed an intraclass correlation of more than 95%, a mean absolute difference of less than 1 mm, and a technical error of measurement of less than 1 mm. Measurements of relative error (2.59–12.04%) and relative technical error (1.83–16.05%) for the inter-landmarks distance from pupil center to the lower punctum were higher than those from limbus nasal center to the lower punctum (6.13–30.39 and 4.34–26.85%, respectively). Conclusions This study provided high reliability of the three-dimensional lateral distraction test (3D-LDT) for assessing medial canthal tendon (MCT) laxity, which were never evaluated by digital imaging system. Level of Evidence IV This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.

Author(s):  
Jinhua Liu ◽  
Alexander C. Rokohl ◽  
Yongwei Guo ◽  
Senmao Li ◽  
Xiaoyi Hou ◽  
...  

AbstractThree-dimensional (3D) stereophotography area measurements are essential for describing morphology in the periocular region. However, its reliability has not yet been sufficiently validated. The objective of this study was to evaluate the reliability of 3D stereophotogrammetric area measurements in the periocular region. Forty healthy volunteers had five flat paper objects placed at each of the seven periocular positions including the endocanthion and the upper medial, upper middle, upper lateral, lower medial, lower middle, and the lower lateral eyelid. Two series of photographic images were captured twice by the same investigator. Each image of the first series was measured twice by the same rater, while images of both series were measured once by a second rater. Differences between these measurements were calculated, and the intrarater, interrater, and intramethod reliability was evaluated for intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), mean absolute differences (MADs), technical errors of measurements (TEMs), relative errors of measurements (REMs), and relative TEM (rTEM). Our results showed that 21.2% of all ICCs were considered as excellent, 45.5% were good, 27.3% were moderate, and 6.1% were poor. The interrater ICC for the endocanthion location was 0.4% on a low level. MAD values for all objects were less than 0.3 mm2, all TEM were less than 1 mm2, the REM and rTEM were less than 2% for all objects, showing high reliability. 3D stereophotogrammetry is a highly reliable system for periocular area measurements and may be used in the clinical routine for planning oculoplastic surgeries and for evaluating changes in periocular morphology.Level of Evidence IV This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.


Author(s):  
Yunpeng Gu ◽  
Ning Kang ◽  
Qianwen Lv ◽  
Yue Qi ◽  
Zhenjun Liu ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Upper arm liposuction mainly focuses on the posterolateral region, which may lead to a lack of harmony between the aspirated and unaspirated areas. In addition, the treatment effect of arm liposuction is often evaluated only by preoperative and postoperative photograph comparison and simple measurement; quantitative research on this topic is still lacking. Methods The multi-positional circumferential arm liposuction (MCAL) technique was proposed and applied to a total of 34 females in our hospital from 2017 to 2019. Three-dimensional data of 12 patients before the operation and after 2–3 months were collected and processed by 3D imaging, and the volume reduction rate was evaluated quantitatively. Results The MCAL method was successfully applied in the clinic, and its surgical effect was quantitatively studied. The mean follow-up time of 12 patients was (75.2 ±13.1) days, and the postoperative volume was significantly reduced. The postoperative volume of patients with type I, type II and type III decreased by (10.79 ±2.55)%, (17.25 ±3.02)% and (22.76 ±3.51)%, respectively. Conclusion Our new MCAL technique was successful, maximizing the esthetic results in upper limb contour refinements in the superficial fascial layer. The clinical efficacy of this proposed MCAL method was evaluated by CT and 3D digital technology, which provided further accuracy in demonstrating its effect on the shape of the arm. Level of evidence IV This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors https://www.springer.com.


PeerJ ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 8 ◽  
pp. e9687
Author(s):  
Vanina Costa ◽  
Óscar Ramírez ◽  
Abraham Otero ◽  
Daniel Muñoz-García ◽  
Sandra Uribarri ◽  
...  

Background Elbow and wrist chronic conditions are very common among musculoskeletal problems. These painful conditions affect muscle function, which ultimately leads to a decrease in the joint’s Range Of Motion (ROM). Due to their portability and ease of use, goniometers are still the most widespread tool for measuring ROM. Inertial sensors are emerging as a digital, low-cost and accurate alternative. However, whereas inertial sensors are commonly used in research studies, due to the lack of information about their validity and reliability, they are not widely used in the clinical practice. The goal of this study is to assess the validity and intra-inter-rater reliability of inertial sensors for measuring active ROM of the elbow and wrist. Materials and Methods Measures were taken simultaneously with inertial sensors (Werium™ system) and a universal goniometer. The process involved two physiotherapists (“rater A” and “rater B”) and an engineer responsible for the technical issues. Twenty-nine asymptomatic subjects were assessed individually in two sessions separated by 48 h. The procedure was repeated by rater A followed by rater B with random order. Three repetitions of each active movement (elbow flexion, pronation, and supination; and wrist flexion, extension, radial deviation and ulnar deviation) were executed starting from the neutral position until the ROM end-feel; that is, until ROM reached its maximum due to be stopped by the anatomy. The coefficient of determination (r2) and the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) were calculated to assess the intra-rater and inter-rater reliability. The Standard Error of the Measurement and the Minimum Detectable Change and a Bland–Altman plots were also calculated. Results Similar ROM values when measured with both instruments were obtained for the elbow (maximum difference of 3° for all the movements) and wrist (maximum difference of 1° for all the movements). These values were within the normal range when compared to literature studies. The concurrent validity analysis for all the movements yielded ICC values ≥0.78 for the elbow and ≥0.95 for the wrist. Concerning reliability, the ICC values denoted a high reliability of inertial sensors for all the different movements. In the case of the elbow, intra-rater and inter-rater reliability ICC values range from 0.83 to 0.96 and from 0.94 to 0.97, respectively. Intra-rater analysis of the wrist yielded ICC values between 0.81 and 0.93, while the ICC values for the inter-rater analysis range from 0.93 to 0.99. Conclusions Inertial sensors are a valid and reliable tool for measuring elbow and wrist active ROM. Particularly noteworthy is their high inter-rater reliability, often questioned in measurement tools. The lowest reliability is observed in elbow prono-supination, probably due to skin artifacts. Based on these results and their advantages, inertial sensors can be considered a valid assessment tool for wrist and elbow ROM.


2020 ◽  
Vol 41 (4) ◽  
pp. 457-462 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rubén Sánchez-Gómez ◽  
Ricardo Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo ◽  
Marta Elena Losa-Iglesias ◽  
César Calvo-Lobo ◽  
Emmanuel Navarro-Flores ◽  
...  

Background: Functional hallux limitus (FHL) refers to dorsiflexion hallux mobility limitation when the first metatarsal head is under loading conditions but not in the unloaded state. The goal of the study was to evaluate 3 common manual tests (Buell, Dananberg, and Jack tests) for assessing first metatarsophalangeal joint (MPJ) mobility and determining the normal values needed to detect FHL, and clarify the signs and symptoms associated with this pathology. Methods: Forty-four subjects were included in this reliability study. Subjects were divided into healthy control (non-FHL) and FHL groups according to the Buell first MPJ limitation values in addition to signs and symptoms derived from the literature. In both groups, we measured the mobility in the Buell, Dananberg, and Jack tests using a goniometer; their intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), sensitivities, and specificity indexes were also calculated. Results: All techniques showed high reliability across measurement trials with ICCs ranging from 0.928 to 0.999. The optimal mobility grades for predicting FHL were 68.6 ± 3.7 degrees, 21 ± 5.9 degrees, and 25.5 ± 6.5 degrees (mean±SD) ( P < .05) for the Buell, Dananberg, and Jack tests, respectively. Conclusion: Normal and limited mobility values were established for assessing FHL using each technique. The sensitivity and specificity data were perfect for the Dananberg and Jack tests, thus identifying these tests as specific and valid tools for use in FHL diagnosis. Pinch callus was the sign most associated with FHL. Level of Evidence: Level II, comparative series.


2014 ◽  
Vol 104 (6) ◽  
pp. 601-609 ◽  
Author(s):  
Thales R. Souza ◽  
Haroldo L. Fonseca ◽  
Ana Carolina A. Vaz ◽  
Juliana S. Antero ◽  
Cristiano S. Marinho ◽  
...  

Background Detailed description of foot pronation-supination requires multisegment evaluation of the kinematics of the foot-ankle complex. There are noninvasive methods with independent (single) tracking markers attached directly to the skin. However, these methods are inconsistent with the usual rigid segments assumption. In contrast, using clustered markers is compatible with this assumption and is necessary for analyses that need tracking markers to be distant from the foot (eg, shod walking). This study investigated the between-day reliability of a cluster-based method for multisegment analysis of foot-ankle angles related to pronation-supination. Methods Ten healthy adults participated in the study. An anatomically based, three-dimensional model comprising the shank, calcaneus, and forefoot was created. Rigid clusters of tracking markers were used to determine the relative positions and motions of the segments. Mean positions were measured with the subtalar joint in neutral position during standing. Furthermore, mean angles, peaks, and timings of peaks were measured during the stance phase of walking. All of the variables were measured twice, with a 1-week interval. To evaluate reliability, intraclass correlation coefficients were calculated for discrete variables and coefficients of multiple correlation for entire gait curves. Results Intraclass correlation coefficients varied from 0.8 to 0.93 for the angles obtained when the subtalar joint was in neutral and from 0.76 to 0.9 for walking variables. Coefficients of multiple correlation varied from 0.93 to 0.97 for walking curves. Conclusions The method described has good to high reliability and provides a systematic method for multisegment kinematic evaluation of foot-ankle pronation-supination.


Author(s):  
Zhouxiao Li ◽  
Riccardo Enzo Giunta ◽  
Konstantin Frank ◽  
Thilo Ludwig Schenck ◽  
Konstantin Christoph Koban

Abstract Background Three-dimensional surface imaging is established in many disciplines for objective facial acquisition regarding anthropometry. Former studies addressed the validation of landmark-based measurements for single race. In order to distinguish racial difference, the reproducibility of the landmark measurements must first be validated. Objectives Our purpose is to validate the reproducibility of 46 facial soft-tissue landmarks on x, y, z axes to prove their reliability as 3D reference points. Methods The study included 80 European Caucasian and 80 Chinese volunteers. Standardized 3D surface imaging was performed using Vectra 3D system. Two raters identified and defined 46 landmarks (138 coordinates), then repeatedly 3D-imaged volunteers' facial region in separate sessions. Coordinates' reproducibility of landmarks is divided into three categories (< 0.5 mm, < 1 mm, and >1 mm) for intra- and inter-rater reproducibility assessments. Results Coordinates' reproducibility of 160 samples was distributed as follows: Intra-rater: < 0.5 mm (45%), < 1 mm (42%), >1 mm (13%); inter-rater: < 0.5 mm (31.2%), < 1 mm (42%), > 1 mm (26.8%). The reproducibility of landmarks in nasal tip region differs slightly between Caucasians and Asians. Compared to females, males typically have higher landmark reproducibility in lip and chin region. However, there were no differences in the reproducibility ranking of landmarks by gender. Conclusion The majority of the 46 landmarks in the 3D plane are reproducible to 1 mm, which is clinically acceptable. All selected landmarks showed strong consistency across race and gender, suggesting their potential use as reference points in prospective clinical practice. Level of Evidence IV This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.


2020 ◽  
Vol 44 (6) ◽  
pp. 1980-1987 ◽  
Author(s):  
Robin Hartmann ◽  
Maximilian Weiherer ◽  
Daniel Schiltz ◽  
Stephan Seitz ◽  
Luisa Lotter ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Breast reconstruction is an important coping tool for patients undergoing a mastectomy. There are numerous surgical techniques in breast reconstruction surgery (BRS). Regardless of the technique used, creating a symmetric outcome is crucial for patients and plastic surgeons. Three-dimensional surface imaging enables surgeons and patients to assess the outcome’s symmetry in BRS. To discriminate between autologous and alloplastic techniques, we analyzed both techniques using objective optical computerized symmetry analysis. Software was developed that enables clinicians to assess optical breast symmetry using three-dimensional surface imaging. Methods Twenty-seven patients who had undergone autologous (n = 12) or alloplastic (n = 15) BRS received three-dimensional surface imaging. Anthropomorphic data were collected digitally using semiautomatic measurements and automatic measurements. Automatic measurements were taken using the newly developed software. To quantify symmetry, a Symmetry Index is proposed. Results Statistical analysis revealed that there is no difference in the outcome symmetry between the two groups (t test for independent samples; p = 0.48, two-tailed). Conclusion This study’s findings provide a foundation for qualitative symmetry assessment in BRS using automatized digital anthropometry. In the present trial, no difference in the outcomes’ optical symmetry was detected between autologous and alloplastic approaches. Level of evidence Level IV. Level of Evidence IV This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.


2018 ◽  
Vol 12 (3) ◽  
pp. 262-272 ◽  
Author(s):  
A. Johansson ◽  
Y. Aurell ◽  
B. Romanus

Purpose To establish reproducible posterior ultrasonographic projections for evaluation of the movement in the talocrural joint in clubfeet and normal feet from the perinatal period up to the age of four years. Methods The feet in 105 healthy children and 46 patients (71 clubfeet and 21 normal feet) were examined. In all, 14 feet in seven patients were examined twice by two examiners independently to evaluate the repeatability of the ultrasonography scans. A posterior sagittal projection was used. The distance from the posterior aspect of the tibial physis to the posterior border of the talocalcaneal joint (Tib. phys – TCJ) was measured with the foot in neutral position and dorsiflexion. In plantar flexion the shortest distance between the tibial physis and the calcaneus was measured. The distance from the skin to the tibial epiphyses and the talus was measured in neutral position. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was calculated to evaluate the repeatability of the measurements. Results The interexaminer reliability was 0.71 to 0.89 ICC. The intra- and interobserver reliability measured as ICC was 0.68 to 0.99 for all measurements. The correlation between Tib. phys. – TCJ and clinical dorsiflexion varied much between the age groups. Conclusion Ultrasonography of the posterior aspect of the ankle joint can be done with high interexaminer reliability. The repeatability of image evaluation was high. Correlation to clinical measurements varied, therefore dynamic ultrasound in real time is clinically more useful than single measurements on frozen ultrasound images. Level of Evidence III


2017 ◽  
Vol 01 (03) ◽  
pp. 146-151 ◽  
Author(s):  
Julian Fürmetz ◽  
Florian Wolf ◽  
Ekkehard Euler ◽  
Peter Thaller ◽  
Nikolaus Degen

AbstractNeck-shaft angle (NSA) and medial proximal femoral angle (MPFA) describe the geometry of the proximal femur, but they are influenced by rotation. The MPFA is closer to the right angle and therefore assumed to be less influenced. This hypothesis was tested with a mathematical approach to compare the effects of rotation and their clinical relevance on both angles. We developed a three-dimensional (3D) geometrical model representing projectional radiography of the femoral axes under rotation and derived a mathematical equation. For validation purposes, we experimentally simulated projectional radiography and compared the results to those of the equation (five different inclinations of the femoral neck (IFN) each in 13 different rotations). The validated equation was used to determine the influence of rotation (–60° to +60°) on normal valued NSA and MPFA. The mean absolute difference between calculated and experimentally measured values was 0.6° (standard deviation [SD] 0.5; 0.0–2.2). The mean calculated difference between true and projected NSA was 7.1° (SD 7.1; 0.0–22.0), and for the MPFA, it was –1.9° (SD 2.2; –7.4 to 0.0). Clinically relevant deviations (≥5°) occurred at ≥30° external or ≥ 40° internal rotation for the NSA, for the MPFA at 60° external rotation. Mathematical modeling of radiographic projection of the IFN is possible to a high level of accuracy. Our results indicate that the NSA is significantly more susceptible to deviations caused by rotation than the MPFA. Clinicians must be aware of rotational influences in radiographic projection and possibly should use the MPFA instead of the NSA. The rotational influence during X-ray imaging must be controlled accurately, and femoral torsion should be quantified in computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging (CT/MRI) scans if possible. 3-D bone models reconstructed from digital image data can be a future option for measuring true angles. Level of evidence was basic research.


2020 ◽  
Vol 40 (12) ◽  
pp. 1319-1326
Author(s):  
Aurora Almadori ◽  
Nicole Zenner ◽  
Deborah Boyle ◽  
Victoria Swale ◽  
Wendy Reid ◽  
...  

Abstract Background The vulva is composed of aesthetic units that can be affected differently by vulvar conditions. A reliable, comprehensive, and quick-to-use clinical scoring system is required to assess the disease extent in the vulvar area. Objectives The aim of this study was to develop and validate a grading scale based on the aesthetic unit principle to evaluate the extent of vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS). Methods After reviewing photographs of 100 patients affected by VLS, the authors targeted the aesthetic units most frequently affected. The disease signs were recorded and graded in 4 levels of severity (none, mild, moderate, severe) taking into account the vulvar architecture and skin involvement. To validate the scale, 14 observers were asked to apply it to photographs of 25 VLS patients on 2 different occasions. Intra- and inter-observer reliabilities were determined employing Pearson’s and intraclass correlation coefficients. Results A 6-region, 4-point grading system was designed and identified as the Vulvar Architecture Severity Scale (VASS). In all 6 areas, the Pearson’s r was greater than 0.9 (mean, 0.994; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.992), indicating that the intra-observer reliability of the VASS was consistent over time (P &lt; 0.001). Intraclass correlation at time 1 was 0.928 (95% CI = 0.910, 0.943) and at time 2 was 0.944 (95% CI = 0.931, 0.996), indicating a high reliability level among different observers. Conclusions The VASS is a reliable scale to assess the severity of VLS, and it might be considered as an outcome measure in future VLS trials. Level of Evidence: 4


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