An investigation to examine the inter-tester and intra-tester reliability of the Rolimeter knee tester, and its sensitivity in identifying knee joint laxity

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the Rolimeter@ knee tester (Aircast@, Europe) as reliable and clinically sensitive tool for identifying and quantifying knee joint laxity utilising a sample of both known ACLD and normal knees. Methods: Thirty matched subjects (1 5 known ACLD and 15 normal subjects) were tested for knee joint laxity using the Polime-term. Each subject was measured at both 90" and 30" of knee flexion, by each of the six investigators. This was then repeated again by all six investigators so that inter-tester and intra-tester reliability could be examined. Results: Results showed that there was good reliability between testers, and intra-tester reliability was good for both left and right knees in both 90" and 30" of flexion. Results also demonstrated a high level of sensitivity for determining knee joint laxity in ACLD compared to normal knees. Conclusion: The Rolimeter@ knee tester is a reliable device for quantifying knee joint laxity, and is sensitive enough to identify anterior cruciate ligament deficiency.

The anterior–posterior laxity after total knee arthroplasty inserted with a ligament tensor

“…In this study, the Rolimeter instrument is used to determine the anteriorposterior laxity of the TKA knee. Several studies have shown the rolimeter to be a valid and reliable testing device for the anterior-posterior translation of the knee joint [5,11,13] in the 90°as well as the 30°of knee flexion [6] with no significant difference between Rolimeter measurements compared to other testing devices [1].…”

Static rotational and sagittal knee laxity measurements after reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament

“…However, there are contrasting results of the used devices regarding the precision and the reproducibility of the measurements [4,9,11,23,26,29,37]. Furthermore, rotational laxity, which becomes more and more in the focus after ACL surgery, cannot be measured.…”

Passive anterior tibial translation in women with and without joint hypermobility: an exploratory study

“…Size and homogeneity of the sample might be considered strengths of the current study. Although the Rolimeter measurements showed good reliability and validity, they could be a limiting factor. The TT was conducted passively and statically and in a non‐functional horizontal position of the lower extremity .…”

“…KT1000, KT2000) in order to measure anterior TT with a higher reliability and validity . Another clinically sensitive tool for identifying knee joint laxity is the Aircast Rolimeter . Several authors showed that the original Rolimeter proved to be a reliable and valid measurement tool for the evaluation of anterior TT …”

“…10 Several authors showed that the original Rolimeter proved to be a reliable and valid measurement tool for the evaluation of anterior TT. 9,10 The ACL is the most often injured ligament of the knee. There are approximately 200 000 estimated ACL injuries annually in the United States, whereof 100 000 receive ACL reconstruction surgery.…”