Postural stability computerized evaluation in total knee arthroplasty

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Biomechanics
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Knee osteoarthrosis (KOA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) significantly impact patient balance and mobility.
• Objective assessment of balance is crucial for evaluating TKA outcomes and guiding rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess balance in patients with KOA and post-TKA using computerized evaluation of postural stability (PSCE).
• To determine the influence of patient characteristics on PSCE performance in the post-TKA group.

Main Methods:

• An observational, cross-sectional study involving patients with KOA and patients >9 months post-TKA.
• Assessment included sociodemographic, radiographic, clinical data, and PSCE using the Biodex Balance System.

Main Results:

• Post-TKA patients exhibited improved balance, showing greater load on the replaced knee and less imbalance on static and dynamic platforms.
• Better postural stability was observed in monopodalic stance for post-TKA patients.
• Age, weight, operated knee pain, extension deficit, and Berg Balance Scale scores correlated significantly with PSCE performance in post-TKA patients.

Conclusions:

• Computerized evaluation of postural stability (PSCE) is a valuable tool for quantifying balance in patients with KOA and following TKA.
• Patient-specific factors significantly influence balance outcomes after TKA, highlighting the need for personalized rehabilitation strategies.