Measurement of tibial torsion--a new technique applicable to ultrasound and computed tomography.

A new method for measuring tibial torsion is described which can be applied to both ultrasound (US) and computed tomography (CT). The method has been validated in dry tibiae by comparison with direct measurements and with Jend's established CT method. In clinical practice a good statistical level of agreement has been demonstrated between the values obtained from US and CT scans. Both compared well with values obtained using Jend's CT technique. The use of US avoids exposure to radiation and is therefore suited to studying young subjects and controls and making repeat measurements.