Inter-observer and intra-observer reliability in the radiographic measurements of paediatric forefoot alignment.

BACKGROUND

Foot bones in children have more rounded shapes in radiograms than adults. Thus, the goal of this work was assessing inter- and intra-observer reliability in paediatric forefoot angle measurements.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

Six forefoot angles in 34 AP standing paediatric foot radiographs were measured by 5 researchers. A classic statistical analysis with use of IBM SPSS Statistics 25 was performed and a new method with two-way analysis of variance was applied.

RESULTS

Results of statistical analysis revealed the properties of a subjective assessment related to specific angles. Kilmartin's angle, calcaneus-fifth metatarsal angle and first ray angle are the most reliable; metatarsus adductus angle should be used with great caution in pediatric population. Engel's angle is the most difficult for measuring and measurement error is the highest.

CONCLUSION

The power of paediatric forefoot measurements is various. Several angles are reliable, while Engle's angle is the most doubtful.