Experimental Knee-Joint FracturesA Preliminary Report

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Abstract
Experimental knee-joint fractures were performed on 32 autopsy knee joints from individuals 38-84 years of age with a predominance in the 60-80 year groups (13 males and 19 females). They were free from diseases affecting the skeletal system. The specimens were tested fresh or after freezing at -20[degree]C for less than a month. Frozen specimens were tested immediately after thawing. The specimens consisted of the knee joint and about 15 cm of the extremity above and below the joint. The method of holding the knees for study and of producing intra-articular injuries in autopsy knee joints is described and illustrated with photographs. Only vertical loading with different degrees of flexion of the knees was studied. Most of the injuries were fractures of the tibial condyles. These fractures were subcortical compressions, condylar depressions and split fractures. The type of fracture of the tibial condyle depended upon the angle of flexion of the knee, since angles greater than 20[degree] produced condylar depression rather then a split fracture. Extension of the knee resulted in split fractures. The load required to produce a fracture was greater for the knee in the extended than in the flexed position. There is a short bibliography.

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