Clinical Outcomes after Computed Tomography-Based Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Minimum 3-Year Analyses

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Medical Imaging
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Computed tomography (CT) scan-based three-dimensional (3D) modeling offers enhanced precision in total knee arthroplasty (TKA).
• Extended clinical outcomes of CT-based TKA compared to manual TKA require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the 3-year clinical outcomes of CT-based TKAs with manual TKAs.
• To analyze survivorship, functional outcomes, complications, and radiographic results.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 210 CT-based TKAs was compared with 210 manual TKAs performed by the same surgeon.
• Clinical outcomes were assessed using Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) surveys at approximately 3 years postoperatively.
• Radiographic outcomes, including alignment and radiolucencies, were evaluated.

Main Results:

• All patients achieved 100% survivorship at final follow-up.
• CT-based TKAs demonstrated significantly improved postoperative pain scores (1 vs. 2) and physical function scores (3 vs. 5) compared to manual TKAs (p < 0.05).
• Total WOMAC scores were significantly lower in the CT-based group (5 vs. 7, p < 0.05), with low complication rates and no progressive radiolucencies in either cohort.

Conclusions:

• CT-based 3D modeling TKAs provide excellent 3-year survivorship and radiographic outcomes.
• CT-based TKAs result in superior pain relief, improved physical function, and better overall WOMAC scores compared to manual TKAs.
• Patients undergoing CT-based 3D modeling TKAs can anticipate superior long-term clinical results.