A Comprehensive Approach to Stiffness in Total Knee Arthroplasty

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Biomedical engineering
• Rehabilitation medicine

Background:

• Knee stiffness is a frequent complication following total knee arthroplasty (TKA).
• Limited range of motion post-TKA significantly impairs joint function, leading to pain and disability.
• Arthrofibrosis, or scar tissue formation, is a primary cause of postoperative knee stiffness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of knee stiffness after TKA.
• To elucidate the pathophysiology of arthrofibrosis.
• To outline risk factors, optimization strategies, and treatment options for TKA-related stiffness.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on TKA complications.
• Analysis of preoperative and perioperative risk factors contributing to arthrofibrosis.
• Examination of current and emerging treatment modalities for knee stiffness.

Main Results:

• Identified key risk factors for developing arthrofibrosis.
• Highlighted the importance of perioperative optimization to mitigate stiffness.
• Described a spectrum of treatment options, from conservative to surgical interventions.

Conclusions:

• Preventing knee stiffness through risk factor modification is paramount in the perioperative period.
• Early detection and intervention are critical for favorable patient outcomes.
• Persistent stiffness may necessitate further surgical management, underscoring the need for timely and effective treatment strategies.