Does computer-assisted surgical navigation total knee arthroplasty reduce venous thromboembolism compared with conventional total knee arthroplasty?

Singapore Med J. 2008 Aug;49(8):610-4.

Abstract

Introduction: The study aims to show that total knee arthroplasty using computer-assisted surgical navigation without intramedullary rodding is safer than conventional intramedullary techniques in preventing venous thromboembolism.

Methods: 30 patients were grouped into groups of 10. Groups A and B had conventional intramedullary rodding of the femur and/or tibia. Group C had no rodding of the femur and tibia using computer-assisted surgical navigation. The degree, duration and size of the embolic shower were captured by a transoesophageal echocardiography probe. The echogenic emboli were graded according to the Mayo Clinic score. Haemodynamic parameters such as pulse oximetry oxygen saturation, end-tidal carbon dioxide, heart rate and mean arterial pressure were also recorded.

Results: There was a significant difference in the size of the emboli and the Mayo Clinic score when comparing the groups with intramedullary rodding and those without. There was also a significant difference in the pulse oximetry oxygen saturation and heart rate when the group without intramedullary rodding was compared with groups with rodding.

Conclusion: Surgical navigation total knee arthroplasty may be safer than conventional total knee replacement with intramedullary rodding in preventing venous thromboembolism.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Arthroplasty, Replacement, Knee / adverse effects*
  • Arthroplasty, Replacement, Knee / methods
  • Echocardiography, Transesophageal / methods
  • Female
  • Heart Rate
  • Hemodynamics
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Oximetry
  • Oxygen / chemistry
  • Surgery, Computer-Assisted / methods
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Venous Thromboembolism / diagnostic imaging
  • Venous Thromboembolism / etiology*

Substances

  • Oxygen