The use of knee splints after total knee replacements

The aim of this randomised prospective study was to establish whether the use of knee splints following total knee replacement is necessary. The study included 81 patients undergoing total knee replacement who were randomised into a 'splint' and a 'no splint' group post-operatively. The following parameters were recorded: The range of movement pre-operatively, 5 days post-operatively and 6 weeks post-operatively; the length of time to straight leg raise; the blood drained from the wound; and the amount of post-operative analgesia required. We found that patients in the 'no splint' group achieved significantly greater flexion at 5 days and 6 weeks post-operatively but drained significantly more blood from the wound. Transfusion requirements were similar in the two groups. There was no other significant difference in the parameters measured between the two groups. In conclusion we found no evidence to advocate the use of knee splints following total knee arthroplasty.