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Updated: Mar 7, 2026
In Vitro Application of a Wireless Sensor in Flexion-Extension Gap Balance of Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty
Published on: May 5, 2023
Contact Kinematic Differences Between Gap Balanced vs Measured Resection Techniques for Single Radius
Matthew G Teeter1, Kevin I Perry2, Xunhua Yuan3
1Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University and London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada; Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada; Surgical Innovation Program, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada; Imaging Research Laboratories, Robarts Research Institute, London, ON, Canada.
Measured resection (MR) and gap balancing (GB) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) showed similar outcomes. Both techniques resulted in comparable condylar liftoff, femorotibial contact, and patient satisfaction for this implant system.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Biomechanical engineering
- Medical imaging
Background:
- Measured resection (MR) and gap balancing (GB) are standard total knee arthroplasty (TKA) techniques.
- Surgical approaches differ in bone and soft tissue management, leading to debate.
- This study compares condylar liftoff and femorotibial contact in MR vs. GB TKA.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare condylar liftoff frequency between MR and GB TKA.
- To analyze femorotibial contact location from extension through midflexion.
- To evaluate kinematic and clinical outcomes of MR vs. GB TKA.
Main Methods:
- 24 knees (23 patients) underwent either MR or GB TKA with a posterior-stabilized implant.
- Biplanar radiography at 0°, 20°, 40°, and 60° flexion was performed 1 year postoperation.
- Condylar liftoff, contact location, excursion, and clinical scores were measured.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in condylar liftoff frequency between MR and GB cohorts (P = .41).
- MR TKA showed more posterior medial and anterior lateral condylar contact (P < .01).
- Similar medial/lateral excursion and no difference in clinical outcomes were observed between groups.
Conclusions:
- For this specific implant, MR and GB TKA yield comparable kinematic results.
- Patient-reported outcomes were similar between the MR and GB surgical techniques.
- Both techniques appear effective for achieving satisfactory TKA outcomes with this implant system.
