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Mid-vastus approach induces milder short-term effects on postural control compared to parapatellar approach in total
Thomas Nikodelis1, Stylianos Grigoriadis1, Dimitris Metaxiotis2
1Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece..
Background:
Mid-Vastus and Medial Parapatellar techniques are used for total knee arthroplasty. Their short-term effects within the first month after surgery are yet unexplored. The purpose of this study was to compare Mid-Vastus and Medial Parapatellar effects on knee strength and balance control, at 5 days, 2 weeks and one month after surgery. It was hypothesized that Mid-Vastus would induce milder effects on the dependent variables due to its less invasive nature.
Methods:
Twenty females, randomly assigned to either the Mid-Vastus or the Medial Parapatellar group performed knee flexion-extension force and 30 s of bipedal stance before, 5 days, 2 weeks and one month after surgery. Maximum force, weight distribution and travel distance of the Center of Pressure were calculated.
Findings:
Both groups showed decreased force output at all post-measurements compared to before surgery. Medial Parapatellar group showcased significantly higher travel distance at the 2 weeks measurement (Z = -2.268, p = .023, |r| = 0.507) compared to before surgery. This result was also imprinted on the travel distance of the non-surgical knee limb in the post (t = 3.259, p = .004, d = 1.456), 2 weeks (Z = -2.570, p = .009, |r| = 0.574) and one month measurement (t = 2.653, p = .016, d = 1.185).
Interpretation:
While force is affected for both approaches, Mid-Vastus approach does not affect postural control. Therefore, Mid-Vastus is a less invasive technique compared to Medial Parapatellar. This work highlights the differences between Mid-Vastus and Medial Parapatellar approaches at least until the first month of rehabilitation.
