Use of densitometric examination after cemented total knee arthroplasty

Background. Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA, DEXA) is one of many ways of measuring bone mineral density (BMD). Considering the fact that it is possible using DXA analysis to distinguish metal elements from bone, this method seems to be optimal in the assessment of bone mineral density in the area of an inserted implant. The aim of our study was to examine the usefulness of DXA examination of the knee joint area after cement arthroplasty. Material and methods. A BMD analysis of four areas surrounding the knee prosthesis was performed using the author's own method. Results. After a series of densitometry analyses, the coefficient of variation (CV) and the least significant difference (LSD) were determined. Conclusions. DXA analysis of the knee joint after arthroplasty using the method described here shows high repeatability. Periodic DXA analysis of the vicinity of the knee prosthesis may be useful in assessing the dynamics of change occurring around the implant.