Evaluation Of Average Length of Follow-Up Duration Post Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Survey

Abstract

Background: Among the various diseases in the world, osteoarthritis (OA) is a major contributing factor of disability. Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) is a widely performed procedure for advanced arthritis of the knee joint. Both subjective and objective assessments are necessary to evaluate the outcomes post TKA. The physiotherapy treatment program following the surgery is designed in a manner which is best suitable to the patient’s need, the efficacy of which will only be determined with regular follow up sessions. Objectives: The primary objective is to find out length of duration of follow up sessions post TKA with the Physiotherapist. The secondary objectives are to determine whether the reason for termination of follow-up is physiotherapist-based or patient-based and to determine whether the discharge criteria are based on measurable assessment tools. Purpose: In spite of the surgery being routinely performed, records of time period of follow up with the surgeons and physiotherapists are not maintained. It is also not documented whether the discharge occurs on the basis of formal functional assessments. Methodology: Pilot study was performed on a group of 10 physiotherapists to calculate the sample size. It was found to be 73. For the final study, candidates fitting in the inclusion criteria were chosen. Oral consent was taken. Self-designed questionnaire in the form of “Google-Form” was administered. The candidates were requested to fill the same. Descriptive analysis of the data obtained was performed to find out the average duration of follow-up post Total Knee Arthroplasty using PRISM Graph-Pad software. Results: Average (median) length of follow-up duration post TKA was found to be 6.000 weeks. Furthermore, the termination criteria of follow-up were more physiotherapist based and objective in nature. Conclusion: The time period of follow-up post TKA is inconsistent with the minimum period required for optimal functional recovery of various clinical parameters. Clinical Implication: A standardized protocol of follow-up post TKA must be devised. The decision making process of termination of follow-up which is based on measurable tools of assessment should be in line with current research findings. KEYWORDS: Total Knee Arthroplasty, Follow-up, Functional Recovery.