title: Comparison of gait parameters in distal femoral replacement using a metallic endoprosthesis versus allograft reconstruction.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Restoration of gait mechanics after reconstruction have been associated with improved functional outcomes and increased longevity of the reconstruction. The goal of this study is to compare the gait mechanics of an allograft reconstruction of the distal femur to both metallic endoprosthetic reconstruction relative to normal control subjects.
  
  
  METHODS
  Gait parameters were captured using motion capture system, and then analyzed and compared for patients with metallic endoprosthetic reconstructions, and patients with allograft reconstructions of the distal femur following resection of malignant bone tumor, with subjects having no history of musculoskeletal disorders serving as a control group.
  
  
  RESULTS
  All reconstructed distal femurs following tumor resection resulted in decreased range of motion reflected in observed flexion/extension angles compared to the normal limbs. The allograft reconstructed knees demonstrated normal patterns of rotation whereas the metal subjects had abnormal patterns of rotation and statistically significant differences in rotational moments.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Allograft distal femoral reconstruction after malignant excision remains a viable option for surgeons faced with problems associated with iatrogenic muscle, bone and soft tissue defects.
authors.affiliation: Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA.
authors.forename: Fahad
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: AlGheshyan
authors.affiliation: Department of Kinesiology and Sport Sciences, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA.
authors.forename: Moataz
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Eltoukhy
authors.affiliation: Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA.
authors.forename: Khaled
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Zakaria
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopaedics, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
authors.forename: Harry Thomas
authors.initials: HT
authors.lastname: Temple
authors.affiliation: Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA.
authors.forename: Shihab
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Asfour
keywords: Distal femoral replacement; Gait analysis; Motion capture