下颈椎椎弓根置钉偏差的CT多平面及三维重建研究

目的：通过颈椎CT多平面和三维重建资料的观测，了解下颈椎椎弓根螺钉置入的可行性，评价置钉偏差后的风险。方法：对8例非颈椎椎弓根病患者进行颈椎CT多平面和三维重建观察，对C3椎弓根内外径、内倾角及四壁皮质厚度行数据测量。结果：组成横突孔的四界不在同一高度同时出现，形成内界的椎弓根明显高于外界。CT示部分椎弓根外壁及横突孔前壁存在滋养血管孔（10％和8．8％）。C3椎弓根内壁厚（1．8±0．3）mm，，外壁厚（0．9±0．3）mm，上壁厚（1．3±0．4）mm，下壁厚（1．4±0．4）mm，外径（5．3±0．6）mm，内径（2．6±0．7）mm，内倾角（45．9±4．4）°。结论：下颈椎椎弓根内径小，外壁薄，椎弓根螺钉置入时，外壁容易穿破；椎弓根主体高于横突孔外界，椎弓根螺钉穿破外壁时，椎动脉可向外逃逸，减少损伤。     

Is there a relationship between symptoms of patients and tomographic characteristics of styloid process?

Objectives

To investigate the angulations and length of the styloid process (SP) on three-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT) images between the patients having elongated SP complaints and those without any stylalgia symptoms.

Patients and methods

One hundred patients underwent 3D-CT evaluation of the bilateral temporomandibular joints to investigate for symptomatic elongated styloid process (ESP) at our institution. The differences between the mean angulations and lengths of the SP and comparisons between patient and control groups were analyzed by student t test.

Results

In study group, mean length of styloid processes was 40.7 ± 10.8 mm on the right and 40.3 ± 10.9 mm on the left. Mean medial angles of SP were measured as 22.60 ± 4.0 on the right side and 22.60 ± 4.5 on the left side. In the same group, mean anterior angles of SP were 16.10 ± 6.9 on the right and 16.70 ± 7.1 on the left side. The “in-group” comparisons of lengths, medial and anterior angles did not produce statistically significant results. The comparison of medial angulations between the symptomatic and asymptomatic patients was the only statistically meaningful result in our study.

Conclusion

3D-CT has several advantages according to conventional tomography for visualization of head and neck anatomy. The increase of medial angulation of SP may be responsible for the development of complaints in ESP.     

A morphometric analysis of the superior cervical ganglion and its surrounding structures

Purpose

The aim of this cadaveric study was to detect the superior cervical ganglion (SCG) in a topographic manner according to vertebrae and to determine the relationship between the vertebrae, mandibular angle and longus colli muscle through morphometric analysis.

Methods

The present study was performed on 40 SCG of 20 human cadavers (16 males, 4 females). The level of the SCG was determined based on the vertebrae. Ganglion length, width and thickness were detected. Distance to the adjacent vertebra, the mandibular angle and medial side of the longus colli muscle were measured. The results were evaluated statistically.

Results

The SCG existing in all cadavers was detected at the C2 vertebra level in 34 cadavers and at the C3 vertebra level in 6 cadavers. The average length, width and thickness of the SCG were 15.18 ± 1.12, 4.62 ± 0.25, and 1.83 ± 0.10 mm, respectively. No statistically significant difference was detected in terms of the distances between the ganglion and anterior tubercle of transverse processes of the vertebrae as well as the mandibular angle on either side. The distance between the SCG and the medial edge of the longus colli muscle was significantly greater on the left side in both men (p < 0.001) and women (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Recognition of morphometric characteristics of the SCG and detection of its location according to adjacent formations may serve as a guide for nerve blockage studies and help surgeons to preserve the ganglion in both anterior and anterolateral cervical approaches.

     

Anatomical study of the medial patello-femoral ligament: landmarks for its surgical reconstruction

Purpose

The aim of this dissection study was to describe the anatomical insertions of the medial patello-femoral ligament (MPFL), and to assess its relationship with surrounding structures to improve its surgical reconstruction.

Methods

Twelve knees (7 cadavers) were included for the study. Measurements and general features of the MPFL were assessed: lengths, widths and insertions.

Results

The MPFL was found in all knees, presenting a triangular shape, and extending from the medial part of the patella to its femoral insertion (its length was of 59 ± 6.6 mm), distal to the adductor tubercle. The mean femoral insertion of the MPFL was 7.2 ± 2.7 mm proximal and 7.4 ± 4.0 mm posterior to the medial femoral epicondyle (MFE). It was also at a mean 11 ± 2.8 mm distal and 1.3 ± 2.1 mm posterior to the adductor tubercle, and 22 ± 6.4 mm anterior to the posterior condyle. We did not find any double-bundle organization on the patellar insertion. The width of the MPFL was 8.8 ± 2.9 mm at the femoral insertion, 27 ± 5.9 mm at the patellar insertion, and 12 ± 3.1 mm in the middle of the MPFL. The vastus medialis obliquus was found to be inserted on the superior part of the MPFL.

Conclusion

The adductor tubercle appeared to be a better landmark than the MFE for the femoral tunnel positioning during surgical reconstructions of the MPFL because it was easier to identify and its relationship with the femoral insertion of the MPFL was constant (10 mm below).     

Anatomical and CT angiographic study of superior gluteal neurovascular pedicle: implications for hip surgery

Purpose

To identify the site of incision with the lowest risk of injury of the superior gluteal neurovascular pedicle in the total hip arthroplasty with Hardinge’s direct lateral approach.

Methods

Eight fresh donated bodies were dissected and the branches of the superior gluteal nerve (SGN) and superior gluteal artery (SGA) were dissected. The distance between the SGA and the apex of greater trochanter (GT) was also evaluated in vivo in 29 patients by CT angiography.

Results

We observed 12 spray pattern and 4 transverse neural trunk pattern of the SGN. In all cases the nerve runs inferiorly to the artery, with a mean distance of 0.5 cm. At the CT angiography the average distance between the main branch of SGA and the GT was 5.2 cm, indicating a mean distance of 4.7 cm from the SGN to the GT. Terminal branches of SGA are found until 2.7 cm from GT.

Conclusions

This study analyzed the relationships between superior gluteal neurovascular pedicle and the GT in vivo (considering also the muscular tone), showing that during direct lateral access a safe area of 4.7 cm exists from the GT to the SGN and of 3.5 cm to its lower rami.     

The anatomical and clinical details of the pterygoid canal: a three-dimensional reconstructive virtual anatomic evaluation based on CT

Purpose

To delineate the pterygoid canal (PC) configuration and its position in relation to surrounding important anatomical landmarks using three-dimensional reconstructive technology based on CT for the Chinese.

Methods

The computerized tomography arteriography (CTA) data of 137 patients were retrospectively evaluated using neuroimaging three-dimensional reconstructive software. The morphological parameters of the PC as well as the spatial relationship and distance between the PC relative to internal carotid artery (ICA) and the foramen rotundum were evaluated.

Results

83.9 % of the PC can be identified by our neuroimaging three-dimensional reconstructive software. The mean distance from the PC to the ICA was 2.6 ± 1.2 mm. The mean distance between medial aspects of bilateral ICA was 19.6 ± 2.7 mm. The distal vertical and horizontal distances between the PC and foramen rotundum were 5.2 ± 3.2 and 6.1 ± 2.8 mm, respectively. All the proximal end of the PC were inferior-lateral to the ICA. The PC mainly (92.9 %) ran posteriorly with a medial to lateral direction. The distance from the PC to ICA was positively correlated with the distance between bilateral ICA and the distal diameter of the PC. The vertical distance between the PC and foramen rotundum was positively correlated with the length of the PC and the horizontal distance between the PC and foramen rotundum.

Conclusions

Understanding the configuration and spatial relationship of the PC may be helpful to improve the accuracy and safety of operation during the expanded transnasal endoscopic approaches to skull base. The three-dimensional reconstructive virtual anatomic technology may be a useful tool to delineate the PC configuration and its position to surrounding important anatomical landmarks.     

Geometry of the Clavicle and Reliability of Measurement using PACS

Purpose

To investigate the geometry of the clavicle and to assess the reliability of Picture Archiving Communication System (PACS) for its measurement.

Methods

One hundred pairs of dry clavicles from 78 males and 22 females were measured on radiographs using PACS. Measurements included all of the following parameters: length, width, medial and lateral angulation. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for the inter-observer and intra-observer reliability was calculated.

Results

The mean left clavicle length among males and females was 149.25 ± 9.64 and 133.30 ± 8.32 mm, respectively. The respective mean right clavicle length among the males and females was 147.77 ± 9.99 and 132.08 ± 6.92 mm. The clavicles from male cadavers were significantly longer, wider and thicker than those from females, on both the left and right (P < 0.05). Among both the male and female clavicles, the left side was significantly longer than the right (P < 0.05). There was good to excellent intra-observer reliability (ICC > 0.70) for all parameters. Inter-observer reliability was also found good to excellent for all parameters except for medial clavicular angulation; for which there was fair reliability (ICC = 0.697).

Conclusion

The geometry of the clavicle is influenced by sex and side. Use of PACS as a measurement tool is reliable. Data from this study will be useful for pre-contouring plate or improving future designs of the anatomical plate of the clavicle.     

Medial calcar of proximal humeral fracture as landmark in restoration of humeral length in case of hemiarthroplasty

Purpose

Several methods to restore the appropriate length of the humerus in the case of proximal humeral fractures treated by hemiarthroplasty have been previously published. Our study evaluates the possibility of using the medial calcar of humerus for humeral length reconstruction not based on preoperative planning.

Methods

Preparations of 320 dry humeral bones were used for the purpose of the study. Points of interest were marked on each bone: the most proximal point of the humeral head, the crest of greater tuberosity, diameters of the head, the anatomical and surgical necks. Proximal parts of bones were then scanned from two angles with a digital camera and all measurements were performed on calibrated photographs. We compared accuracy in humeral length reconstruction using insertion of the pectoralis major and the area of medial calcar where usually a fracture develops.

Results

The distance between the top part of the humeral head and the insertion of pectoralis major was 54.1 ± 6.0 mm. The distance between the lateral margin of the anatomical neck and the medial calcar was 51.4 ± 4.3 mm. We compared these data with diameters of the humeral head.

Conclusions

The site of the fracture can be used for the reconstruction of the humeral length with greater accuracy than area of the pectoralis major insertion. We suggest that to obtain the final distance between the lateral margin of the artificial head and medial calcar of the fracture 2–3 mm should be added to the diameter of the head.     

An anatomic study of the dorsal forearm perforator flaps

Purpose

The posterior forearm is an excellent donor site for the vascular pedicled cutaneous flaps; yet, there is surprisingly little detailed anatomical information based on clinical decision making. This study was undertaken to evaluate the anatomical basis of the dorsal forearm perforator flaps and to provide anatomical landmarks to facilitate flap elevation.

Methods

Thirty cadavers were available to perform this anatomical study after arterial injection. Twenty fresh cadavers were injected with a modified lead oxide–gelatin mixture, selected for 3-dimensional reconstruction using special software (MIMICS) and the arterial territory measured with Scion Image. Other ten were injected with red latex preparation, and perforators were identified through dissection.

Results

(1) The average number of posterior interosseous artery cutaneous perforators in the dorsal forearm was 5 ± 2, the average diameter was (0.5 ± 0.1) mm, and the pedicle length was (2.5 ± 0.2) cm. The average cutaneous vascular territory was (22 ± 15) cm². Cutaneous perforators could be found along the line extending from the lateral epicondyle to the radial border of the head of ulna. (2) Dorsal branch of anterior interosseous artery supplied blood to distal third of dorsal forearm; its average diameter was 0.8 mm.

Conclusion

The free transplantation of the posterior interosseous perforator artery flaps or rotary flap pedicled by dorsal branch of anterior interosseous artery for defect reconstruction is feasible.     

A morphometric anatomical and comparative study of the foramen magnum region in a Greek population

Background

The foramen magnum (FM), a complex area in craniocervical surgery, poses a challenge for neurosurgeons. The knowledge of the detailed anatomy of the FM, occipital condyles (OC) and variations of the region is crucial for the safety of vital structures. This study focuses on the FM and OC morphometry, highlights anatomical variability and investigates correlations between the parameters studied.

Materials and methods

One hundred and forty-three Greek adult dry skulls were examined using a digital sliding calliper (accuracy, 0.01 mm).

Results

Mean FM width and length were found 30.31 ± 2.79 and 35.53 ± 3.06 mm, respectively. The commonest FM shape was two semicircles (25.9 %), whereas the most unusual was irregular (0.7 %). The OC minimum width, maximum width and length were 5.71 ± 1.61, 13.09 ± 1.99 and 25.60 ± 2.91 mm on the right, and 6.25 ± 1.76, 13.01 ± 1.98 and 25.60 ± 2.70 mm on the left side. The commonest OC shape was S-like and the most unusual was ring, bilaterally. The mean anterior and posterior intercondylar distances were 19.30 ± 3.25 and 51.61 ± 5.01 mm, respectively. The OC protruded into the FM in 86.7 % of the skulls. Variations such as a third OC existed in 5.6 % and basilar processes in 2.8 %. Posterior condylar foramina were present in 75.5 %. The gender was correlated with FM width and length, OC length, bilaterally, anterior intercondylar distance (AID) and posterior intercondylar distance (PID). The OC protrusion and existence of posterior condylar foramina were correlated. Bilateral asymmetry for OC shape was statistically significant.

Conclusion

Our results provide useful information that will enable effective and reliable surgical intervention in the FM region with the maximum safety and widest possible exposure.     

Anatomical landmarks for locating the sphenoid ostium during endoscopic endonasal approach: a cadaveric study

Purpose

The sphenoid ostium (SO) provides a natural portal for entering the sphenoid sinus and beyond up to the skull base. It is not always easy to locate the ostium during the endoscopic approach. The present study was designed to establish readily identifiable anatomical landmarks for locating the sphenoid ostium.

Methods

Cadaveric dissection was performed in 30 hemisections of head and neck and various measurements were taken from fixed anatomical landmarks in the nasal cavity to the sphenoid ostium. The size, shape and position of sphenoid ostium were determined in relation to the anterior wall of the sphenoid sinus and the superior turbinate.

Results

The mean distance from the supero-lateral angle of the posterior choana to the SO was found to be 21.21 ± 6.02 mm. The mean distance of the SO from the midline was 4.85 ± 2.89 mm. In all the specimens, the SO was situated within 1 cm of the midline. The mean distance between the inferior end of the SO and the postero-inferior edge of the superior turbinate was 8.03 ± 3.52 mm. The SO was present on an average distance of 55.1 ± 3.54 mm from the limen nasi. In 93.3 % of the specimens, the SO was situated between 5 and 6 cm of the inferior end of the limen nasi. The angle between the anterior nasal spine and the SO was found to be remarkably constant. In 93.3 % of the specimens, it was from 25° to 30°.

Conclusions

The sphenoid ostium could be localized medial to the superior turbinate between 1.5 and 3 cm above the supero-lateral angle of the posterior choana, within 1 cm of the midline and within 1 cm of the postero-inferior edge of the superior turbinate.     

Anatomical study of the corrugator supercilii muscle and its clinical implication with botulinum toxin A injection

Purpose

Botulinum toxin A (BTX-A) injection targeting the corrugator supercilii muscle (CSM) has been widely performed to remove glabellar wrinkles. The aim of the present study was to elucidate the exact location and dimensions of the CSM in Koreans by elaborate dissections followed by accurate measurements to provide the topographic guidance for an efficient and safe manipulation of the BTX-A injection.

Methods

Thirty-five specimens from twenty fixed Korean cadavers (twelve males, eight females; mean age, 65.5 years) were examined in the present study.

Results

The CSM comprised oblique and transverse bellies, with the oblique belly being classified into narrow vertical (62.9 %) and broad triangular (37.1 %) types. The widths at the apex and base of the CSM were 10.0 ± 3.7 and 19.5 ± 5.4 mm (mean ± SD), respectively. The most-medial apical point was located 17.3 ± 3.2 mm superior to the horizontal intercanthal plane (HL) and 4.3 ± 1.9 mm lateral to the vertical midline of the face (VL). The most-lateral apical point was located 15.8 ± 2.4 mm superior to the HL and 13.9 ± 4.3 mm lateral to the VL. The most-medial basal point was located 31.2 ± 3.2 mm superior to the HL and 16.4 ± 4.8 mm lateral to the VL. The most-lateral basal point was located 28.6 ± 4.9 mm superior to the HL and 35.3 ± 4.3 mm lateral to the VL.

Conclusion

The topographic data on the CSM presented here in will be helpful for the accurate and safe implementation of BTX-A injection to the forehead in Koreans.     

Dynamics of optic canal and orbital cavity development revealed by microCT

Purpose

Numerous studies have attempted to clarify the exact anatomy and variations of the optic canal with non-conclusive results due to its close proximity to many vulnerable structures. We sought to determine the dynamics of growth and development of these structures on fetal skulls, which will help us to better understand of gender and age-dependent variations, as well as fatal malformations.

Methods

Fifteen previously macerated fetal frontal and sphenoid bones were analyzed and the diameters of optic canal, and distance of orbit from frontomaxillary suture to frontozygomatic suture were measured using 3D reconstruction images obtained by micro-CT.

Results

Average diameter of the optic canal in 300 mm fetus was measured to be 1,546 ± 36 µm, in 400 mm fetus 2,470 ± 123 µm and in 500 mm fetus 3,757 ± 203 µm. This trend indicates a linear enlargement of optic canal during the fetal period. During the same time period, diameter of the orbit enlarges from 12,319 ± 559 µm in 300 mm fetus to 19,788 ± 736 µm in 500 mm fetus. Growth curve is significantly lower in comparison with the same curve in optic canal data. We also calculated the ratio of orbit diameter and optic canal diameter between those groups which decreased from a value of 7.9 ± 0.4 for 300 mm fetus to 5.3 ± 0.2 for 500 mm fetus.

Conclusion

Dynamics of optic canal and orbital cavity development is different in early and late fetal period. Diameters of those structures are in better correlation with the fetal length.     

The medial head of the triceps brachii. Anatomy and blood supply of a new muscular free flap: the medial triceps free flap

Purpose

The anatomical features of the posterior compartment of the arm seem to provide the basis to raise one of the smallest free muscular flaps, with minimal donor site morbidity: the medial triceps free flap.

Methods

The anatomic study was carried out on 27 fresh cadaver arms: 7 prepared for corrosion cast, 15 for simple dissection and 5 for dissection after latex injection. Morphological data of the muscle, as well as pedicle constancy and size, were recorded.

Results

The mean size of the medial head was 10.7?×?2.5?×?3.3?cm; the mean weight was 30.1?g. We found a constant and unique pedicle supplying the whole medial head of triceps muscle, composed by the middle collateral artery (MCA), two veins and a nerve. The mean length of MCA was 2.9?cm and the ??extended?? pedicle, including the deep brachial artery (DBA), was 8?C12?cm long. At their origin, the mean caliber of MCA was 1.5?mm and the mean caliber of DBA 2.4?mm.

Conclusions

Our findings confirmed the reliability of the MC vessels and their anatomical relationships with the medial head of triceps brachii muscle, which could be harvested as a free flap or as a pedicled flap based on anterograde or retrograde flow. This technique should be safe, yielding mild donor site morbidity, and suitable in regional reconstruction or distant reanimations.     

The vascular basis of the hemi-hamate osteochondral free flap. Part 2: surgical anatomy and clinical application

Purpose

The free vascularised hemi-hamate flap combines the utility of providing a small osteochondral portion of hamate for reconstruction, while providing a means of vascularisation to preserve articular cartilage after transfer. In Part 1 of this series, we highlighted the vascular approaches to such a technique. The current study investigates the bony architecture of the hamate, with particular emphasis on its utility for a range of osteochondral defects in the hand.

Methods

A morphometric assessment of the hamate as a potential osteochondral flap donor site for resurfacing digital phalangeal heads (either total or unicondylar) and/or bases was thus undertaken. This anatomic study was undertaken using in vivo imaging performed for a range of clinical indications, with computed tomographic angiography (CTA) and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) of the upper limb included. Bony and vascular measurements and relationships were recorded and assessed both quantitatively and qualitatively. A clinical case is presented, highlighting the application of these measurements.

Results

The mean digital artery diameter was 0.7 mm with a mean distance between digital artery and interphalangeal joint surface (i.e. pedicle length) of 1.18 mm. Mean hamate dimensions comprised a transverse width 16.62 mm, lateral width of 14.29 mm and ridge height of 1.43 mm. Measurements of the phalangeal bases, condyles and total phalangeal heads were recorded, and the optimal hamate harvest approaches demonstrated. Despite perceived differences, in all cases there was statistical similarity demonstrated between the fragments.

Conclusion

The hemi-hamate osteochondral flap can be applied to a range of osteochondral defects in the hand and may offer new options to the hand surgeon.     

Morphometric analysis of the infraorbital groove, canal, and foramen on three-dimensional reconstruction of computed tomography scans

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the anatomy of the infraorbital foramen (IOF), infraorbital canal (IOC), and infraorbital groove (IOG) with regard to surgical and invasive procedures using three-dimensional reconstruction of CT scans.

Methods

The CT scans of 100 patients were evaluated retrospectively. The morphology of the IOF, IOC, and IOG as well as their relationships to different anatomic landmarks was assessed in a three-dimensional model.

Results

The mean length of the IOC and IOG and the angle of the IOC relative to IOG were 11.7 ± 1.9, 16.7 ± 2.4 mm, and 145.5° ± 8.5°, respectively. The mean angles of the IOC relative to vertical and horizontal planes were 13.2° ± 6.4° and 46.7° ± 7.6°, respectively. In the relationships between the IOF and different anatomic landmarks, the mean distances from the IOF to supraorbital notch/foramen, facial midline, and infraorbital rim were 5.6 ± 3.1 mm laterally, 26.5 ± 1.9 mm laterally, and 9.6 ± 1.7 mm inferiorly, respectively. The mean distance from the IOF to anterior nasal spine (ANS) was 35.0 ± 2.6 mm, and the mean angle of the axis that passed the IOF and ANS relative to horizontal plane was 28.8° ± 4.1°. In addition, the mean soft tissue thickness overlying the IOF was 11.4 ± 1.9 mm.

Conclusions

These results provide detailed knowledge of the anatomical characteristics and clinical importance of the IOF. Such knowledge is of paramount importance for surgeons when performing maxillofacial surgery and regional block anesthesia.     

A retrospective comparison of the location and diameter of the inferior alveolar canal at the mental foramen and length of the anterior loop between American and Taiwanese cohorts using CBCT

Purpose

The aim was to retrospectively compare the measurements of the location and size of the inferior alveolar canal at the mental foramen and the length of the anterior loop between two cohorts of Americans and Taiwanese using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Methods

CBCT was performed with an I-CAT^® Cone-Beam 3D Dental Imaging System and reconstructed into multiple-plane views to measure two populations.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference (P = 0.2681) in the distance from the mental foramen to the inferior border of the mandible (mandibular border height) between Americans (9.84 ± 2.01 mm) and Taiwanese (10.13 ± 1.66 mm). No significant difference was found (p = 0.1161) in the inferior alveolar canal diameter between these two cohorts (2.26 ± 0.67 and 2.13 ± 0.47 mm, respectively). However, the anterior loop length of Taiwanese (7.61 ± 1.81 mm) was significantly longer than that of Americans (6.22 ± 1.68 mm) (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Our study indicated that (1) the location of mental foramen of Americans was closer to the inferior border of the mandible than Taiwanese; (2) the diameter of the inferior alveolar canal of Americans was larger than Taiwanese; (3) the anterior loop of Taiwanese was longer than Americans. These differences may be, at least partly, due to the racial influence and this information may possess potential valuable clinical relevance.     

Impact of forearm fatigue on the postural response to an externally initiated,predictable perturbation

Purpose

The objective was to examine the impact of non-postural muscle fatigue on anticipatory postural control, during postural perturbations induced by platform translations. The experimental setup investigated the central changes caused by fatigue without the potential confounding influence of peripheral fatigue within the postural muscles.

Methods

Fatigue induced in forearm muscles by a maximal handgrip contraction has been previously shown to influence forearm force production for 10 min, reduce ankle plantarflexion force for 1 min and create measureable central fatigue for 30 s. The peak-to-peak anterior/posterior displacement of the center of mass and center of pressure (COP) and muscle activity were measured during the postural perturbation tasks performed before the fatigue protocol and for 10 min post-fatigue.

Results

The fatigue protocol decreased the peak-to-peak COP displacement from 128.0 ± 12.3 mm pre-fatigue to 81.9 ± 7.8 mm post-fatigue during the forwards platform translation (p < 0.05) and from 133.8 ± 12.0 to 89.2 ± 7.9 mm during the backwards translation (p < 0.05). The fatigue protocol also caused the tibialis anterior (TA pre-fatigue = ?0.25 ± 0.04 s, TA post-fatigue = ?0.41 ± 0.02 s, p = 0.001) and medial gastrocnemius muscles (MG pre-fatigue = ?0.39 ± 0.03 s, MG post-fatigue = ?0.48 ± 0.02 s, p = 0.028) to be recruited significantly earlier relative to the pre-fatigue condition.

Conclusion

This experimental setup ensured that peripheral fatigue did not develop in the postural muscles; therefore, a general fatigued-induced modification of the postural strategy is proposed as the origin of the postural changes and delayed recovery.