Predictive Factors for Total Knee Arthroplasty: An Observational Study.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Rheumatology
• Geriatrics

Background:

• Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a prevalent degenerative joint disease.
• Early identification of KOA progression factors is crucial for timely intervention.
• Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a common surgical treatment for advanced KOA.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify predictive factors for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA).
• To characterize patients with KOA who are likely to require TKA.
• To evaluate the association of demographic and clinical factors with the need for TKA.

Main Methods:

• A prospective observational study involving 70 clinically and radiologically diagnosed KOA patients.
• Inclusion criteria: age >45, knee pain, radiological KOA signs.
• Exclusion criteria: recent trauma, infection, other rheumatic diseases, incomplete data.

Main Results:

• Patients requiring TKA were significantly older (65.12 ± 8.19 years) than non-TKA patients (52.55 ± 3.63 years).
• Women (80.85%) were more likely to need TKA than men (52.17%).
• Hypertension (78.57%), elevated ESR (96.67%), and lower KSS scores were associated with TKA requirement.

Conclusions:

• Female patients over 65 with hypertension and elevated ESR are at high risk for TKA.
• Low Knee Society Score (KSS) function is a significant indicator for TKA in KOA patients.
• These findings aid in predicting TKA need and optimizing KOA management.