Tibial component fixation in total knee arthroplasty: a comparison of pegged and stemmed designs

This study compares midterm radiographic, functional, and quality-of-life outcomes in patients receiving a cemented tibial component that has either a short intramedullary stem or one that has a pegged tibial component. A cohort of 181 patients received 225 NexGen cruciate-retaining implants (84 stemmed, 141 pegged) during total knee arthroplasty, with annual follow-up examinations for up to 7 years. Both types of tibial components were associated with excellent radiographic and clinical results with no radiographic evidence of implant loosening or osteolysis. Clinical outcomes included improvement in joint function and patient function, as well as quality of life. Survival analysis showed 98% survival at 7 years with both implants. Pegged tibial components offered comparable midterm radiographic, functional, and quality-of-life results to stemmed components.