Posterior Tibia Slope Angle Measurement in Adult Igbos of South Eastern Nigeria Using Plain Xray-Films

Abstract

Background: Posterior slope of the tibia (PTS) is the posterior-inferior inclination of the tibia plateau relative to the longitudinal axis of the tibia. This slope plays a role in the biomechanics and kinematics of the knee.

Aim: The study aims to determine the normal Posterior Tibia Slope Angle (PTSA) in adult Igbos of South East Nigeria population and also identify any laterality and/or correlation of the angle with gender and age.

Methods: Normal lateral radiographs of Two Hundred and Sixty Five (265) skeletal matured patients were included in the study. The PTS measurement was done using the Anterior Tibial Cortex method. A two way analysis of variance was conducted on the influence of two independent variables (age, gender) on the PTS measured for the right knee as well as the left knee.

Results:The mean normal PTS of the study population was 11.9 ± 3.40. It had no significant association with participants' age or gender (P > 0.05). There was a weak positive correlation between the left and right knee's PTSA (r = 0.33).

Conclusion: The mean normal PTSA in adult Igbos of South East Nigeria population is 11.9 ± 3.4o. There is no laterality, gender dimorphism or correlation of the angle with gender and age.