Total Knee Arthroplasty Designs Research Articles

Kinematics and kinetics comparison of ultra-congruent versus medial-pivot designs for total knee arthroplasty by multibody analysis

Nowadays, several configurations of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) implants are commercially available whose designs resulted from clinical and biomechanical considerations. Previous research activities led to the development of the so-called medial-pivot (MP) design. However, the actual benefits of the MP, with respect to other prosthesis designs, are still not well understood. The present work compares the impact of two insert geometries, namely the ultra-congruent (UC) and medial-pivot (MP), on the biomechanical behaviour of a bicondylar total knee endoprosthesis. For this purpose, a multibody model of a lower limb was created alternatively integrating the two implants having the insert geometry discretized. Joint dynamics and contact pressure distributions were evaluated by simulating a squat motion. Results showed a similar tibial internal rotation range of about 3.5°, but an early rotation occurs for the MP design. Furthermore, the discretization of the insert geometry allowed to efficiently derive the contact pressure distributions, directly within the multibody simulation framework, reporting peak pressure values of 33 MPa and 20 MPa for the UC and MP, respectively. Clinically, the presented findings confirm the possibility, through a MP design, to achieve a more natural joint kinematics, consequently improving the post-operative patient satisfaction and potentially reducing the occurrence of phenomena leading to the insert loosening.

Intraoperative Load Sensing in Total Knee Arthroplasty Leads to a Functional but Not Clinical Difference: A Comparative, Gait Analysis Evaluation.

Introduction: Although Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) is a successful procedure, a significant number of patients are still unsatisfied, reporting instability at the mid-flexion range (Mid-Flexion Instability-MFI). To avoid this complication, many innovations, including load sensors (LS), have been introduced. The intraoperative use of LS may facilitate the balance of the knee during the entire range of motion to avoid MFI postoperatively. The objective of this study was to perform a Gait Analysis (GA) evaluation of a series of patients who underwent primary TKA using a single LS technology. Methods: The authors matched and compared two groups of patients treated with the same posterior stabilized TKA design. In Group A, 10 knees were intraoperatively balanced with LS technology, while 10 knees (Group B) underwent standard TKA. The correct TKA alignment was preoperatively determined aiming for a mechanical alignment. Clinical evaluation was performed according to the WOMAC, Knee Society Score (KSS) and Forgotten Joint Score, while functional evaluation was performed using a state-of-the-art GA platform. Results: We reported excellent clinical results in both groups without any statistical difference in patient reported outcome measurements (PROMs); from a functional standpoint, several GA space–time parameters were closer to normal in the sensor group when compared to the standard group, but a statistically significant difference was not reached. Conclusions: Gait Analysis represents a valid method to evaluate TKA kinematics. This study, with its limitations, showed that pressure sensitive technology represents a valid aid for surgeons aiming to improve the postoperative stability of TKA; however, other factors (i.e., level of intra-articular constraint and alignment) may play a major role in reproducing the normal knee biomechanics.

The Clinical Outcome of Different Total Knee Arthroplasty Designs in One-Stage Revision for Periprosthetic Infection.

Despite the growing number of studies reporting on the best surgical treatment in the management of periprosthetic joint infection, there are no robust data regarding the type of infected prosthesis before any kind of exchange arthroplasty. To overcome these shortcomings, we asked the following questions: (1) What is the survivorship of nonhinged and hinged knee implants after one-stage exchange arthroplasty and (2) what is the functional outcome after one-stage exchange procedure focusing on knee prostheses and the type of prior infected knee implant. In a secondary radiographic analysis, we also investigated if (3) the type of femoral bone morphology measured by the inner femoral diameter influences the rate of aseptic failures also in patients with periprosthetic joint infection. Between January 2011 and December 2017, we performed a retrospective designed study including 211 patients with infected knee prostheses. After all, seventy-six percent (161 of 211 patients) were available for final data analysis. These patients were divided into four groups as per the performed implant revision: (1) bicondylar total knee arthroplasty to rotating hinge implant, (2) rotating hinge to rotating hinge implant, (3) rotating hinge to full hinge implant, and (4) full hinge to full hinge implant. The mean follow-up (FU) was six years (range 3 to 9; standard deviation= 1.9), whereas a minimum FU of three years was required for inclusion. Survivorship and group analysis were performed, and the functional outcome was assessed using postoperative Oxford Knee Scores at the latest FU (60-point scale with lower scores representing less pain and greater function). Furthermore, in all cases, femoral bone morphology was determined as per the Citak classification system. At the final FU, the overall surgical revision rate was 23% (37/161 patients) with nine percent (15/161 patients) suffering a periprosthetic joint infection relapse. Group 1 consisted of 51, group 2 consisted of 67, group 3 consisted of 24, and group 4 consisted of 19 patients. The lowest overall revision rate was found in group 2 (16%, n= 11), compared with 28% (n= 14) in group 1, 29% (n= 7) in group 3, and 26% (n= 5) in group 4; however, no significant differences were found (P= .902). The functional outcome (Oxford Knee Score) was clinically constant in all groups, with 32 points in group 1, 37 points in group 2, 33 points in group 3, and 35 points in group 4 (P= .107). Concerning the number of patients with aseptic loosening as per bone morphology, 74% (14/19) of all aseptic loosening cases appeared in femoral bone type C morphologies according to Citak (75% in group 1, 56% in group 2, 100% in group 3, and 100% in group 4). The results obtained suggest a generally high overall revision rate (25%) with a good infection control rate (91%). Although we were unable to work out a specific group of patients with a statistically significant differing outcome, it is interesting to see that hinged implants can reach more or less the same functional outcome and revision rates as nonhinged implants, when it comes to revision surgeries. In this study, a relatively high number of aseptic failures contributed to a high overall revision rate. In this context, the bone morphology, measured as per the Citak classification system, could be confirmed as a risk factor for aseptic failures also in septic patients. Therefore, further research might focus on revision knee implant design.

Effect of weight-bearing in bicruciate-retaining total knee arthroplasty during high-flexion activities

BackgroundTo evaluate the effect of weight-bearing on the kinematics of the bicruciate-retaining total knee arthroplasty design during high knee flexion activities. MethodsThe kinematics of 21 bicruciate-retaining total knee arthroplasties were evaluated under fluoroscopy, with two- and three-dimensional image registrations, during squatting (weight-bearing) and active-assisted knee flexion (non-weight-bearing). The following variables were measured: knee range of motion, axis of femoral rotation and varus-valgus angle relative to the tibial component, anteroposterior translation of the medial and lateral contact points, and the kinematic pathway of the joint surfaces. FindingsFrom 20° to 100° of flexion, the femoral external rotation during weight-bearing was larger than that during non-weight-bearing. There were no differences in the varus-valgus angles between the two conditions. From 10° to 50° of flexion, the medial contact point during weight-bearing was located posterior to the point of contact during non-weight-bearing; this difference between the two weight-bearing conditions was significant. From 0° to 90° of flexion, the lateral contact point in weight-bearing was located posterior to the contact point in non-weight-bearing; this difference between the two weight-bearing conditions was also significant. InterpretationThe anteroposterior position of the medial and lateral contact points of the bicruciate-retaining total knee arthroplasty design was significantly more posterior in the mid-range of knee flexion in weight-bearing than in non-weight-bearing. However, no anterior translation of the bicruciate-retaining total knee arthroplasty design was observed. Therefore, bicruciate-retaining total knee arthroplasty appears to have good anteroposterior stability throughout the range of knee flexion, regardless of the weight-bearing condition.

More passive internal tibial rotation with posterior cruciate ligament retention than with excision in a medial pivot TKA implanted with unrestricted caliper verified kinematic alignment

PurposeExcision of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) is recommended when implanting a medial pivot (MP) total knee arthroplasty (TKA) to reduce the risk of limiting flexion by over-tensioning the flexion space. The present study determined whether PCL retention (1) limits internal tibial rotation and (2) causes anterior lift-off of the insert in 90° flexion after implantation of an MP design with unrestricted caliper verified kinematic alignment (KA).MethodsFour surgeons implanted an MP TKA design with medial ball-in-socket and lateral flat tibial insert in ten fresh-frozen cadaveric knees. Before and after PCL excision, trial inserts with medial goniometric markings measured the angular I–E tibial orientation relative to the trial femoral component's medial condyle in extension and at 90° flexion, and the surgeon recorded the occurrence of anterior lift-off of the insert at 90° flexion.ResultsPCL retention resulted in greater internal tibial rotation than PCL excision, with mean values of 15° vs 7° degrees from maximum extension to 90° flexion, respectively (p < 0.0007). At 90° flexion, no TKAs with PCL retention and one TKA with PCL excision had anterior lift-off of the insert (N.S.).ConclusionsThis preliminary study of ten cadaveric knees showed that PCL retention restored more passive internal tibial rotation than PCL excision with a negligible risk of anterior lift-off. However, in vivo analysis from multiple authors with a larger sample size is required to recommend PCL retention with an MP TKA design implanted with unrestricted caliper verified KA.

Adjusting Insert Thickness and Tibial Slope Do Not Correct Internal Tibial Rotation Loss Caused by PCL Resection: In Vitro Study of a Medial Constraint TKA Implanted with Unrestricted Calipered Kinematic Alignment.

Most medial stabilized (MS) total knee arthroplasty (TKA) implants recommend excision of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), which eliminates the ligament's tension effect on the tibia that drives tibial rotation and compromises passive internal tibial rotation in flexion. Whether increasing the insert thickness and reducing the posterior tibial slope corrects the loss of rotation without extension loss and undesirable anterior lift-off of the insert is unknown. In 10 fresh-frozen cadaveric knees, an MS design with a medial ball-in-socket (i.e., spherical joint) and lateral flat insert was implanted with unrestricted calipered kinematic alignment (KA) and PCL retention. Trial inserts with goniometric markings measured the internal-external orientation relative to the femoral component's medial condyle at maximum extension and 90 degrees of flexion. After PCL excision, these measurements were repeated with the same insert, a 1 mm thicker insert, and a 2- and 4-mm shim under the posterior tibial baseplate to reduce the tibial slope. Internal tibial rotation from maximum extension and 90 degrees of flexion was 15 degrees with PCL retention and 7 degrees with PCL excision (p < 0.000). With a 1 mm thicker insert, internal rotation was 8 degrees (p < 0.000), and four TKAs lost extension. With a 2 mm shim, internal rotation was 9 degrees (p = 0.001) and two TKAs lost extension. With a 4 mm shim, internal rotation was 10 degrees (p = 0.002) and five TKAs lost extension and three had anterior lift-off. The methods of inserting a 1 mm thicker insert and reducing the posterior slope did not correct the loss of internal tibial rotation after PCL excision and caused extension loss and anterior lift-off in several knees. PCL retention should be considered when using unrestricted calipered KA and implanting a medial ball-in-socket and lateral flat insert TKA design, so the progression of internal tibial rotation and coupled reduction in Q-angle throughout flexion matches the native knee, optimizing the retinacular ligaments' tension and patellofemoral tracking.

What factors drive polyethylene wear in total knee arthroplasty? : results of a large retrieval series.

Wear of the polyethylene (PE) tibial insert of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) increases the risk of revision surgery with a significant cost burden on the healthcare system. This study quantifies wear performance of tibial inserts in a large and diverse series of retrieved TKAs to evaluate the effect of factors related to the patient, knee design, and bearing material on tibial insert wear performance. An institutional review board-approved retrieval archive was surveyed for modular PE tibial inserts over a range of in vivo duration (mean 58 months (0 to 290)). Five knee designs, totalling 1,585 devices, were studied. Insert wear was estimated from measured thickness change using a previously published method. Linear regression statistical analyses were used to test association of 12 patient and implant design variables with calculated wear rate. Five patient-specific variables and seven implant-specific variables were evaluated for significant association with lower insert wear rate. Six were significant when controlling for other factors: greater patient age, female sex, shorter duration in vivo, polished tray, highly cross-linked PE (HXLPE), and constrained knee design. This study confirmed that knee wear rate increased with duration in vivo. Older patients and females had significantly lower wear rates. Polished modular tibial tray surfaces, HXLPE, and constrained TKA designs were device design factors associated with significantly reduced wear rate. Cite this article: Bone Joint J2021;103-B(11):1695-1701.

Hyperextension following two different designs of fixed-bearing posterior-stabilized total knee arthroplasty.

Hyperextension after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is related to worse functional outcomes. Among the reported predictive factors, it is unclear whether prosthesis design affects postoperative hyperextension. Hence, our objectives were to (1) compare time-dependent changes of the extension angle following multi-radius (MR) and single-radius (SR) TKA and (2) assess predictive factors for the hyperextension. In this study, consecutive 136 MR TKAs and consecutive 71 SR TKAs performed by a single surgeon were reviewed. The extension angle was evaluated by digitized full-extension lateral radiographs at preoperative, 3months and at 1 and 2years after TKA. A positive value was defined as hyperextension. A multiple regression analysis was used to determine predictive factors for the extension angle and the risk of hyperextension > 5°. The postoperative extension angle of both groups gradually increased during the first 2years and the SR group finally progressed with 4.04° greater extension than the MR group (p < 0.01). The incidence of hyperextension > 5° in the SR group was 18.3% and for the MR group, 7.4% (p = 0.02). However, the Oxford knee scores was nonsignificant different between the groups (p = 0.15). Preoperative extension angle, sagittal femoral component angle (SFA) and SR prosthesis were predictive factors for the extension angle at 2years after TKA and were also associated with hyperextension > 5°. The extension angle of the SR group became significantly more extended than that of the MR group during the first two years after TKA. Hence, ideal extension position immediately after SR TKA may be different from that of the MR TKA prosthesis. The preoperative extension angle, SFA and SR prosthesis were factors that were associated with postoperative hyperextension.

Does posterior cruciate ligament sacrifice influence dynamic balance after total knee arthroplasty? Comparison of cruciate-retaining and cruciate-substituting designs in bilaterally operated patients.

This study aimed to evaluate whether the posterior cruciate ligament sacrifice during total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has any effect on postoperative standing balance or not. The patients who underwent bilateral TKA with either CR or PS design were analyzed. 30 patients (10 PS, 20 CR) were included for the final analysis. TKA designs were compared in terms of Lysholm score, range of motion, and balance characteristics including somatosensorial, vestibular, and visual balance scales, adaptation, limits of stability, and weight-bearing/squat tests by computerized dynamic posturography. The mean follow-up time was 59months for CR, 49months for PS group. The average Lysholm score values were 94 for CR and 95 for PS group, indicating functionally similar patient groups. The average knee flexion was found significantly higher in PS group (114°) compared to CR group (102°) (p = 0.009). In the CR group, motor adaptation tests (toes up/toes down) were found to be better (p = 0.034). In the on-axis velocity parameter (linear goal orientation) of limits of stability test, PS group patients were found to be more successful (p = 0.035). The use of CR implants can be recommended in patients with a high risk of falling since they provide better motor adaptation providing rapid reactions to rapid surface changes. Better linear goal orientation in PS group, providing a faster movement in an intended direction, should be considered when planning the ideal implant for the patients with relevant activities.

Restricted kinematic alignment may be associated with increased risk of aseptic loosening for posterior-stabilized TKA: a case-control study.

The purpose of the study was to compare clinical and radiological results between kinematic alignment (KA) and mechanical alignment (MA) with a posterior-stabilized (PS) total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with a post-cam mechanism at a minimum follow-up of 3years. The authors hypothesized a higher risk of aseptic loosening when performing KA using PS TKA. A retrospective monocentric single surgeon case control study was performed comparing 100 matched patients who had TKA performed using a MA philosophy to 50 patients receiving TKA with a KA technique between January 2016 and October 2017. All patients had the same knee prosthesis (GMK primary posterior-stabilized, Medacta®, Switzerland). Patient specific cutting blocks were used in both groups and a restricted KA (rKA) was aimed in the KA group. A hybrid cementation technique was performed. The new Knee Society Score (KSS) and radiological assessment were collected preoperatively and at the final follow-up. Comparisons between groups were done with the T test or Fisher exact test. Global survival curves were estimated with Kaplan-Meier model. Significance was set at p < 0.05. Mean follow-up was 42.9months ± 3.6 (range 37.6-46.7) and 53.3months ± 4.1 (range 45.5-59.8) for rKA and MA groups. Postoperatively, no significant differences were found for clinical scores between both groups. Radiological assessment found similar postoperative Hip-Knee-Ankle angle for rKA and MA groups (178° versus 179° respectively, NS). At last follow-up, a significant higher survivorship was found for the MA group compared to the rKA group (97 versus 84%; p < 0.001) for aseptic loosening revision as the endpoint. An increased risk of tibial implant loosening was found with rKA compared to MA using a posterior-stabilized TKA with a post-cam system at short-term follow-up. Caution should be taken when choosing the TKA design while performing rKA. Retrospective case-control study, Level IV.

Preoperative radiographic parameters in the case of using a narrow-version femoral implant in total knee arthroplasty.

Recently, total knee arthroplasty (TKA) designs that allow the use of narrow-version femoral implants have been introduced to avoid femoral overhang. The purpose of this study was to investigate the frequency of the use of narrow-version femoral implants and identify the difference in radiographic parameters between using a narrow-version femoral implant and a standard-version femoral implant in TKA. A retrospective study was conducted on 504 primary TKAs using a TKA system (Anthem or Persona) that allowed narrow-version femoral implants. Anteroposterior (AP) dimension, mediolateral (ML) dimension, and modified aspect percentage ratio (ML/AP dimension) of the distal femur in preoperative radiographs were compared between a standard-version group (n = 275) and a narrow-version group (n = 229). A cut-off value of a modified aspect percentage ratio indicating the need for a narrow-version femoral implant was determined using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Mean ML dimension was 80.9 ± 6.1mm in the standard-version group and 77.3 ± 4.4mm in the narrow-version group (p < 0.001). Mean modified aspect percentage ratio was 138.8 ± 8.1% in the standard-version group and 131.7 ± 6.3% in the narrow-version group (p < 0.001). The optimum cut-off point of the modified aspect percentage ratio for narrow-version femoral implants was 135.4% (sensitivity: 72.0%; specificity: 66.7%) for Anthem and 133.3% (sensitivity: 75.9%, specificity: 76.4%) for Persona. In the narrow-version femoral implant group, the ML dimension and the mean modified aspect percentage ratio were smaller than in the standard-version femoral implant group. A smaller modified aspect percentage ratio of the distal femur in preoperative radiographs could predict the need for narrow-version femoral implants in TKA. It was suggested that the cut-off point could be suggested as 135.4% for Anthem TKA design and 133.3% for Persona TKA design. These radiographic parameters are cost-effective and easily applicable for planning a TKA.A smaller modified aspect percentage ratio of the distal femur in preoperative radiographs could predict the need for narrow-version femoral implants in TKA. The cut-off point was 135.4% for Anthem TKA design and 133.3% for Persona TKA design.

Significant differences in rates of aseptic loosening between two variations of a popular total knee arthroplasty design

PurposeThe NexGen Legacy Posterior Stabilised (LPS) prosthesis (Zimmer Biomet, Warsaw, IN, USA) has augmentable and non-augmentable tibial baseplate options. We have noted an anecdotal increase in the number of cases requiring early revision for aseptic loosening since adopting the non-augmentable option. The purpose of this study was to ascertain our rates of aseptic tibial loosening for the two implant types within five years of implantation and to investigate the causes for any difference observed.MethodsA database search was performed for all patients who underwent primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) using the NexGen LPS between 2009 and 2015. Kaplan–Meier curves were plotted to assess for differences in revision rates between cohorts. We collected and compared data on gender, age, body mass index, component alignment and cement mantle quality as these were factors thought to affect the likelihood of aseptic loosening.ResultsTwo thousand one hundred seventy-two TKAs were included with five year follow-up. There were 759 augmentable knees of which 14 were revised and 1413 non-augmentable knees of which 48 were revised. The overall revision rate at five years was 1.84% in the augmentable cohort and 3.4% in the non-augmentable cohort. The revision rate for aseptic loosening was 0.26% in the augmentable group and 1.42% in the non-augmentable group (p = 0.0241).ConclusionsWe have identified increased rates of aseptic loosening in non-augmentable components. This highlights the effect that minor implant changes can have on outcomes. We recommend that clinicians remain alert to implant changes and publish their own results when important trends are observed.

Midterm functional recovery of Total knee arthroplasty patients compared between the ATTUNE knee system and the press fit condylar (PFC) SIGMA knee system

BackgroundThe ATTUNE Knee System is a new prosthetic design that has theoretical advantages over the Press Fit Condylar (PFC) Sigma Knee System specific to improved knee kinematics and patellofemoral joint tracking. This study aimed to evaluate functional outcomes compared between the ATTUNE and PFC Sigma designs at a minimum follow-up of 5 years.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed data from total knee arthroplasty (TKA) patients who received either the ATTUNE or PFC Sigma system during November 2013 to February 2015 at Siriraj Hospital (Bangkok, Thailand). Functional outcomes were evaluated using Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, 2-min walk test (2MWT), modified knee score, numerical rating scale-pain, range of motion (ROM), and rate of anterior knee pain and crepitation at preoperation, 3-months, 1-year, and 5-years postoperatively.ResultsOf 113 patients, 59 and 54 received the PFC Sigma and ATTUNE systems, respectively. At a minimum of 5-years follow-up, all functional outcomes improved significantly from the preoperative period although TUG test and 2MWT declined significantly from 1- to 5-years postoperatively only in the PFC Sigma group. The mean ROM at 5-years postoperatively was significantly higher in ATTUNE than in PFC Sigma; however, the difference was small (116° vs. 110°, respectively; p = 0.041). There were no significant differences in any of the other outcome measurements, including anterior knee pain, clunking, and crepitation, between groups at any study time point.Conclusions​Our results revealed no major differences in functional outcomes between the PFC Sigma and ATTUNE TKA designs at an intermediate-term follow-up of at least 5 years. Longer-term follow-up study is needed to evaluate the benefits of the ATTUNE design relative to polyethylene wear and the rate of aseptic loosening.

Fixed-bearing vs mobile-bearing prostheses for total knee arthroplasty after approximately 10\u2009years of follow-up: a meta-analysis

BackgroundThe benefits and risks of fixed-bearing and mobile-bearing designs for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) were compared, and long-term functional, clinical and radiological outcomes were analysed.MethodsA comprehensive search in the PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science and Cochrane Central databases was conducted to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing fixed-bearing and mobile-bearing designs with no less than 9 years of follow-up. Primary outcome measures were Knee Society Scores (KSSs), range of motion (ROM) in knee joint values, complication rates and revision rates. The final search was performed on 23 April 2021.ResultsSix RCTs were included. A total of 451 patients with 612 knees met the inclusion criteria. The mobile-bearing design, in contrast to the fixed-bearing design, can clearly increase the KSFSs, especially with posterior cruciate retention. There was no significant difference in the KSKSs, ROM values, revision rates or complication rates between the two bearing design groups.ConclusionAfter approximately 10 years of follow-up, the mobile-bearing design has advantages in KSFSs over the fixed-bearing design. The mobile-bearing design may also have advantages in the revision rates over the fixed-bearing design when the posterior cruciate ligament is substituted. There may be no clear difference in KSKSs, ROM values or complication rates between these two designs.

In vivo kinematic comparison between an ultra-congruent and a posterior-stabilized total knee arthroplasty design by RSA.

The aim of the present study was to compare the in vivo under weight-bearing kinematic behavior of a posterior-stabilized (PS) and an ultra-congruent (UC) total knee arthroplasty (TKA) model during a sit-to-stand motor task, a common activity of daily life. A cohort of 16 randomly selected patients (8 PS Persona Zimmer, 8 UC Persona Zimmer) was evaluated through dynamic radiostereometric analysis (RSA) at a minimum of 9months after TKA, during the execution of a sit-to-stand. The anteroposterior (AP) translation of the femoral component and the AP translation of the low point of medial and lateral femoral compartments were compared through Student's t test (p < 0.05). A significantly greater anterior translation of the femoral component was found for the PS group compared to the UC group. The flexion interval where statistical significance was found was between 30° and 0° (p = 0.017). Both groups showed a significantly greater anterior translation of the low point of the lateral compartment with respect to the medial one (PS: p = 0.012, UC: p = 0.018). This was consistent with a medial-pivot pattern. Furthermore, a significantly greater anterior translation of the medial compartment was found in the PS group compared to the UC group (p = 0.001). The same pattern was observed for the lateral compartment (p = 0.006). The TKA designs evaluated in the present study showed comparable in-vivo kinematics with regards to medial pivot pattern but differences in absolute AP translation. Specifically, the UC design showed greater AP stability than the PS design. This finding could be positive in terms of implant stability, but negative in terms of premature polyethylene wear and thus implant failure. This remains to be verified in studies with a larger sample size and longer follow-up. IV.

Unexpected high rate of revision of a modern cemented fixed bearing modular posterior-stabilized knee arthroplasty.

To establish our early clinical results of a new total knee arthroplasty (TKA) tibial component introduced in 2013 and compare it to other designs in use at our hospital during the same period. This is a retrospective study of 166 (154 patients) consecutive cemented, fixed bearing, posterior-stabilized (PS) TKAs (ATTUNE) at one hospital performed by five surgeons. These were compared with a reference cohort of 511 knees (470 patients) of other designs (seven manufacturers) performed at the same hospital by the same surgeons. There were no significant differences in age, sex, BMI, or follow-up times between the two cohorts. The primary outcome was revision performed or pending. In total, 19 (11.5%) ATTUNE study TKAs have been revised at a mean 30.3 months (SD 15), and loosening of the tibial component was seen in 17 of these (90%). Revision is pending in 12 (7%) knees. There was no difference between the 31 knees revised or with revision pending and the remaining 135 study knees in terms of patient characteristics, type of bone cement (p = 0.988), or individual surgeon (p = 0.550). In the reference cohort, there were significantly fewer knees revised (n = 13, 2.6%) and with revision pending (n = 8, 1.5%) (both p < 0.001), and only two had loosening of the tibial component as the reason for revision. This new TKA design had an unexpectedly high early rate of revision compared with our reference cohort of TKAs. Debonding of the tibial component was the most common reason for failure. Additional longer-term follow-up studies of this specific component and techniques for implantation are warranted. The version of the ATTUNE tibial component implanted in this study has undergone modifications by the manufacturer. Cite this article: Bone Joint J2021;103-B(6 Supple A):137-144.

Early outcomes of a modern cemented total knee arthroplasty : is tibial loosening a concern?

Recent total knee arthroplasty (TKA) designs have featured more anatomical morphologies and shorter tibial keels. However, several reports have raised concerns about the impact of these modifications on implant longevity. The aim of this study was to report the early performance of a modern, cemented TKA design. All patients who received a primary, cemented TKA between 2012 and 2017 with a minimum two-year follow-up were included. The implant investigated features an asymmetrical tibial baseplate and shortened keel. Patient demographic details, Knee Society Scores (KSS), component alignment, and the presence of radiolucent lines at final follow-up were recorded. Kaplan-Meier analyses were performed to estimate survivorship. A total of 720 of 754 primary TKAs (95.5%) were included with a mean follow-up of 3.9 years (SD 1.3); 562 (78.1%) were cruciate-retaining and 158 (21.9%) were posterior-stabilized. A total of 11 (1.5%) required reoperation for periprosthetic joint infection and seven (1.0%) for aseptic tibial loosening (five cruciate-retaining, two posterior-stabilized). Loosening occurred at a mean of 3.3 years (0.9 to 6.5). There were no cases of loosening in the 33 patients who received a 14 mm × 30 mm tibial stem extension. All-cause survivorship was 96.6% at three years (95% confidence interval (CI) 95.3% to 98.0%) and 96.2% at five years (95% CI 94.8% to 97.7%). Survivorship with revision for aseptic loosening was 99.6% at three years (95% CI 99.1% to 100.0%) and 99.1% at five years (95% CI 98.4% to 99.9%). Tibial components were in significantly more varus in those with aseptic loosening (mean 3.4° (SD 3.7°) vs 1.3° (SD 2.0°); p = 0.015). There were no other differences in demographic, radiological, or surgical characteristics between revised and non-revised TKAs for aseptic loosening (p = 0.293 to 1.00). Mean KSS improved significantly from 57.3 (SD 9.5) preoperatively to 92.6 (SD 8.9) at the final follow-up (p < 0.001). This is the largest series to date of this design of implant. At short-term follow-up, the rate of aseptic tibial loosening is not overly concerning. Further observation is required to determine if there will be an abnormal rate of loosening at mid- to long-term follow-up. Cite this article: Bone Joint J2021;103-B(6 Supple A):51-58.

Excellent mid-term follow-up for a new 3D-printed cementless total knee arthroplasty.

Cementless total knee arthroplasty (TKA) offers the potential for strong biological fixation compared with cemented TKA where fixation is achieved by the mechanical integration of the cement. Few mid-term results are available for newer cementless TKA designs, which have used additive manufacturing (3D printing). The aim of this study was to present mid-term clinical outcomes and implant survivorship of the cementless Stryker Triathlon Tritanium TKA. This was a single institution registry review of prospectively gathered data from 341 cementless Triathlon Tritanium TKAs at four to 6.8 years follow-up. Outcomes were determined by comparing pre- and postoperative Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement (KOOS JR) scores, and pre- and postoperative 12-item Veterans RAND/Short Form Health Survey (VR/SF-12) scores. Aseptic loosening and revision for any reason were the endpoints which were used to determine survivorship at five years. At mid-term follow-up, the mean KOOS JR score improved significantly from 33.14 (0 t0 85, standard deviation (SD) 21.88) preoperatively to 84.12 (15.94 to 100, SD 20.51) postoperatively (p < 0.001), the mean VR/SF-12 scores improved significantly from physical health (PH), 31.21 (SD 5.32; 23.99 to 56.77) preoperatively to 42.62 (SD 10.72; 19.38 to 56.82) postoperatively (p < 0.001) and the mental health (MH), 38.15 (SD 8.17; 19.06 to 60.75) preoperatively to 55.09 (SD 9.64; 19.06 to 66.98) postoperatively (p < 0.001). A total of 11 revisions were undertaken, with an overall revision rate of 2.94%, including five for periprosthetic joint infection (1.34%), three for loosening (0.80%), two for instability (0.53%), and one for pain (0.27%). The overall survivorship was 97.06% and survivorship for aseptic loosening as the endpoint was 98.40%, with a 99.5% survivorship of the 3D-printed tibial component. This 3D-printed cementless total knee system shows excellent survivorship at mid-term follow-up. This design and the ability to obtain cementless fixation offers promise for excellent long-term durability. Cite this article: Bone Joint J2021;103-B(6 Supple A):32-37.

Lower revision rates for cemented fixation in a long-term survival analysis of three different LCS designs.

In primary Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA), it is still not clear if cemented or uncemented fixation has the best long-term survival. The Low Contact Stress (LCS) mobile-bearing (MB) knee system was introduced in 1977. The aim of this study is to investigate the long-term survival of this design with a minimum of 15-year follow-up. A retrospective analysis was performed, with the primary endpoint for survival defined as revision. Cox regression analysis was performed to assess the association between type of fixation and the risk of revision, while correcting for potential confounders (diagnosis, design, age and sex). 1271 cases were included with inflammatory joint disease (IJD) (657 cases) and non-IJD (614 cases). TKAs were performed cemented in 522 cases and uncemented in 749 cases. A bicruciate retaining design was used in 180 cases, a rotating platform design in 174 cases and an anterior posterior glide posterior cruciate-retaining (PCR) design in 916 cases. Cumulative incidence of component revision at 15years was 2.7% (95% CI 1.6; 4.5) for cemented and 10% (95% CI 8.1; 12.4) for uncemented TKA, respectively. The 20-year cumulative incidence was 2.9% (95% CI 1.7; 4.7) for cemented and 10.9% (95% CI 8.8; 13.4) for uncemented TKA, respectively. Age, non-IJD and PCR design were associated with a significantly higher risk of revision, regardless of the type of fixation. Long-term survival for patients undergoing cemented or uncemented TKA using the LCS MB system revealed lower revision rates for cemented fixation. Revision risk was higher in younger, non-IJD patients who had the PCR design, regardless of the type of fixation. For the LCS MB TKA design, it is recommended to use cemented fixation.

Two-year RSA migration results of symmetrical and asymmetrical tibial components in total knee arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial.

The objective of this study was to compare the two-year migration pattern and clinical outcomes of a total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with an asymmetrical tibial design (Persona PS) and a well-proven TKA with a symmetrical tibial design (NexGen LPS). A randomized controlled radiostereometric analysis (RSA) trial was conducted including 75 cemented posterior-stabilized TKAs. Implant migration was measured with RSA. Maximum total point motion (MTPM), translations, rotations, clinical outcomes, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were assessed at one week postoperatively and at three, six, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. A linear mixed-effect model using RSA data of 31 asymmetrical and 38 symmetrical TKAs did not show a difference in mean MTPM migration pattern of the tibial or femoral components. Mean tibial component MTPM at two years postoperative of the asymmetrical TKA design was 0.93 mm and 1.00 mm for the symmetrical design. For the femoral component these values were 1.04 mm and 1.14 mm, respectively. No significant differences were observed in other migration parameters or in clinical and PROM measurements. The TKA design with an asymmetrical tibial component has comparable component migration with the proven TKA with a symmetrical tibial component. This suggests the risk of long-term aseptic loosening of the two designs is comparable. Cite this article: Bone Joint J2021;103-B(5):855-863.