The influence of varus and valgus deviation on patellar kinematics in healthy knees: An exploratory cadaver study.

Background: Patellofemoral instability may lead to osteoarthritis, anterior knee pain, and patellar luxation. The purpose of this study was to conduct an exploratory investigation into the difference of patellar kinematics of healthy knees during extension/flexion cycles in neutral, varus and valgus alignment.

Methods: The three-dimensional patellar kinematics of 10 lower extremities of whole body cadavers were examined during passive motion, in neutral position, and under valgus and varus stress.