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Published on: September 7, 2022
Transverse incision advantages for total knee arthroplasty
Tomohiro Ojima1, Mitsuo Yoshimura, Shin-Ichi Katsuo
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Fukui General Hospital, 58-16-1 Egami, Fukui, Fukui, 910-8561, Japan. ojima@ka2.so-net.ne.jp
Summary
A transverse incision for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is safe, reducing scar formation and nerve injury. This method also significantly improves kneeling function compared to traditional longitudinal incisions.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Surgical Techniques
- Arthroplasty
Background:
- Traditional total knee arthroplasty (TKA) often uses longitudinal incisions.
- Potential benefits of transverse incisions include reduced scarring and improved nerve function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the safety and outcomes of transverse versus longitudinal incisions in TKA.
- To evaluate scar formation, nerve injury, and functional recovery, specifically kneeling ability.
Main Methods:
- Prospective evaluation of 95 patients (101 knees) undergoing primary TKA.
- Comparison between longitudinal (40 knees) and transverse (61 knees) incision groups.
- Assessment of operation time, blood loss, complications, Knee Society Score, wound characteristics (Manchester Scar Scale), sensory disturbances, and kneeling ability at 1-year follow-up.
Main Results:
- Complication rates were similar between groups.
- Transverse incisions resulted in significantly narrower wounds and lower Manchester Scar Scale scores.
- Reduced sensory disturbances and significantly improved kneeling motion (70.4% vs. 40.6%) were observed with transverse incisions.
Conclusions:
- Transverse incisions are a safe and effective alternative for TKA.
- This approach minimizes scar formation and dysfunction of the infrapatellar branch of the saphenous nerve.
- Transverse incisions lead to superior functional outcomes, particularly in kneeling ability.