Primary total knee arthroplasty in treatment of stiff knees / 中华骨科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To evaluate the outcome of primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in treatment of stiff knee, and discuss the key points of operative technique and rehabilitation. Methods From February 2005 to April 2009, 23 patients with 34 stiff knees were treated with primary TKA. The study included 3 males (4 knees) and 20 females (30 knees), with the mean age of 56.9 years. Primary disease of the patients included rheumatoid arthritis (26 knees in 15 cases) and osteoarthritis (8 knees in 8 cases). Varus deformity was found in 10 knees (5°-15°), and valgus was found in 5 knees (5°-10°). Evaluations included preoperative and postoperative range of motion (ROM) measurement, hospital for special surgery knee score (HSS), blood loss, operative time and assessment of postoperative complications. Results All patients were followed up. The mean follow-up time was 32.2 (range, 24 to 40) months. At the final follow-up visit, the HSS score increased from 42.9±5.2 preoperatively to 85.7±4.3, the range of motion increased from 42.6°±5.7° preoperatively to 89.2°±10.5°. Sixteen knees in 12 cases underwent manipulation at 3 to 8 weeks postoperatively for unsatisfied ROM, but ROM was still less than 90° in 8 knees at the last follow-up. The average blood loss were (632.4±180.2) ml in first 24 hours (450-850 ml) and the operative time were (98.1±18.6) min (80-150 min). Deep venous thrombosis was found in 3 patients. All the symptoms relieved after anticoagulant therapy. Postoperative varus deformity was seen in one patient, but the function of knee was good. No revision was needed. Conclusion Primary total knee arthroplasty is reliable method in treatment of stiff knees. Sufficient soft tissue release during the operation, postoperative muscle strength exercise and essential manipulation are key points for satisfactory outcomes.