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In Vitro Application of a Wireless Sensor in Flexion-Extension Gap Balance of Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty
Published on: May 5, 2023
Does ligament balancing technique affect kinematics in rotating platform, PCL retaining knee arthroplasties? A
K Gamada1, N Jayasekera, F Kashif
1Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Florida, 318 MAE-A, Mail Stop 116250, Gainesville, FL, 32611-6250, USA kazgamada@ortho-pt.com
Summary
Ligament balancing techniques in total knee replacement (TKR) surgery impact knee movement. Using a joint spreader device for balancing in TKR showed improved knee kinematics during stair ascent compared to traditional spacer blocks.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomechanical Engineering
- Knee Kinematics Research
Background:
- Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) aims to restore knee function.
- Rotating platform TKA designs offer improved range of motion.
- Ligament balancing is crucial for optimal TKA outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare ligament balancing techniques in rotating platform TKA.
- To assess the effect of balancing methods on postoperative knee kinematics.
- To determine if instrumented joint spreaders improve kinematic outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Prospective, randomized, blinded trial involving 16 patients with unilateral rotating platform TKA.
- Two groups: ligament balancing with an instrumented joint spreader (n=8) vs. fixed thickness spacer blocks (n=8).
- Kinematic analysis using single plane shape matching for deep knee flexion and dynamic stair activities.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in knee kinematics during static deep knee flexion between groups.
- The joint spreader group exhibited kinematics closer to a normal knee during stair ascent.
- A medial pivot motion pattern was observed in the spreader group during stair ascent.
Conclusions:
- Ligament balancing technique significantly influences knee kinematics during dynamic activities post-TKA.
- Instrumented joint spreaders may enhance TKA function by promoting a medial pivot motion during stair ascent.
- This medial pivot pattern may lead to improved long-term functional results in TKA patients.