Suction technique to improve cement penetration under the tibial component in total knee arthroplasty

Improving the longevity and reliability of cemented total knee arthroplasty remains an important part of orthopaedic research. This paper examines the recently described method of preparation of the cancellous surface of the tibia using suction cannulae in the proximal tibia and stem recess during pulsatile lavage and component fixation. The technique provides a surface clear of debris, fat, blood and marrow, and prevents backflow of blood. A retrospective analysis of post-operative radiographs shows significant improvement in the penetration of cement into the tibial plateau, and improved cement profile towards the periphery. Techniques of stem cementation are also compared, and it is recommended that for this particular design implant, cement should be applied into the cut stem recess in the tibia rather than to the stem of the implant itself. This technique of preparation of the cut surface of the tibia is a simple and, to-date, complication-free method of reliably providing satisfactory cement penetration during total knee arthroplasty.