Does accurate anatomical alignment result in better function and quality of life? Comparing conventional and computer-assisted total knee arthroplasty

J Arthroplasty. 2009 Jun;24(4):560-9. doi: 10.1016/j.arth.2008.02.018. Epub 2008 May 19.

Abstract

This is a randomized prospective controlled trial comparing the alignment, function, and patient quality-of-life outcomes between patients undergoing conventional (CONV) and computer-assisted (CAS) knee arthroplasty. One hundred and fifteen patients (60 CAS, 55 CONV) underwent cemented total knee arthroplasty. Three patients were lost to follow-up. Eighty-eight percent (CAS) vs 61% (CONV) of knees achieved a mechanical axis within 3 degrees of neutral (P = .003). Aligning femoral rotation with the epicondylar axis was accurately achieved in CAS and CONV with no significant difference. Patients with coronal alignment within 3 degrees of neutral had superior International Knee Society and Short-Form 12 physical scores at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months after surgery. Computer-assisted total knee arthroplasty achieves greater accuracy in implant alignment and this correlates with better knee function and improved quality of life.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Arthroplasty, Replacement, Knee / adverse effects
  • Arthroplasty, Replacement, Knee / methods*
  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Bone Malalignment / physiopathology
  • Bone Malalignment / prevention & control*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Knee Joint / diagnostic imaging
  • Knee Joint / physiology*
  • Knee Joint / surgery
  • Knee Prosthesis*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Prospective Studies
  • Prosthesis Fitting / methods*
  • Quality of Life*
  • Radiography
  • Range of Motion, Articular / physiology
  • Surgery, Computer-Assisted / methods*
  • Treatment Outcome