Walking Ability After Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Comprehensive Review

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a common procedure for end-stage knee osteoarthritis, aiming to restore function and alleviate pain.
• Walking ability is a key indicator of TKA success, impacting patient independence and quality of life.
• Factors influencing post-TKA walking ability are complex, involving patient-specific, surgical, and rehabilitation elements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review factors affecting walking ability after TKA.
• To synthesize evidence on pre-operative, surgical, and post-operative influences on mobility.
• To explore emerging technologies and future research directions for improving TKA outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of clinical studies, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews.
• Analysis of pre-operative patient characteristics, surgical techniques, and post-operative rehabilitation protocols.
• Evaluation of emerging technologies and biological augmentation for functional recovery.

Main Results:

• Pre-operative factors (demographics, comorbidities, psychological state) significantly impact walking ability.
• Surgical choices (approach, implant, alignment, technology) are critical for functional outcomes.
• Post-operative rehabilitation, including early mobilization and adherence, is essential for optimal recovery.
• While most patients improve, some experience persistent limitations; emerging technologies show promise.

Conclusions:

• A multidisciplinary, patient-centered approach is crucial for maximizing walking ability and satisfaction after TKA.
• Continued research into surgical refinement, advanced rehabilitation, and personalized medicine is needed.
• Optimizing walking ability post-TKA requires addressing a spectrum of patient, surgical, and rehabilitative factors.