Can we define envelope of laxity during navigated knee arthroplasty?

A New Methodology for the Accurate Measurement of Tibiofemoral Kinematics in Human Cadaveric Knees: An Evaluation of the Anterior-Posterior Laxity Pre- and Post-Cruciate Ligament Resection

Anterior-posterior (AP) stability is an important measure of knee performance after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). To improve the stabilizing effect of implants designed to compensate for the loss of the cruciate ligaments, it is important to understand the tibiofemoral contact situation within the native ligamentous situation of the knee and how it changes after cruciate ligament resection. This in vitro study introduces a new approach to accurately measure the tibiofemoral kinematics in a six-degrees-of-freedom joint motion simulator by tracking landmark-based coordinate systems and their corresponding bone geometries. The tibiofemoral contact situation was investigated by projecting the medial and lateral flexion facet centers onto the tibial plateau under AP shear forces across various flexion angles in thirteen knees. Tests were conducted pre- and post-cruciate ligament resection. Post-cruciate ligament resection, the femoral condyles shifted closer to or even exceeded the posterior border of the tibial plateau, but only slightly closer to the anterior border. This study presents a new methodology for measuring the tibiofemoral kinematics that can be applied to multiple loading profiles. It provides a basis for further investigations, including passive or active muscle forces, to enhance the design of total knee protheses and improve surgical outcomes.

Correlation between knee anatomy and joint laxity using principal component analysis

Knee articular geometry and surface morphology greatly affect knee joint mechanics. Intra-subject variations in bone morphology and the passive range of motion have been well documented in the literature; however, the relationship between these two characteristics is not well understood. The objective of this study was to describe the correlation between knee joint anatomical features and passive range of motion using a statistical model. A principal component model was developed using femoral and tibial articular geometry, knee joint initial stance position, and the passive laxity envelope obtained from 27 cadaveric knees. The results from the principal component analysis showed high correlation between the anatomical features and the tibiofemoral passive envelope; an increase in the average femoral condyle radii, an increase in slope of the tibial spine, and a higher tibial plateau concavity correlated with a decrease in varus-valgus and internal-external range of motion. Understanding the correlation between anatomical features and tibiofemoral laxity could aid in the development of orthopedic implant designs by quantifying the effect of perturbing specific anatomical features on knee laxity and identifying specific implant femoral and tibial articular geometry necessary to obtain a targeted passive range of motion.

Computer-Assisted Surgery Enables Beginner Surgeons, Under Expert Guidance, to Achieve Long-Term Clinical Results not Inferior to Those of a Skilled Surgeon in Knee Arthroplasty

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to determine whether the use of a surgical navigation system in total knee replacement (TKR) enables beginner and intermediate surgeons to achieve clinical PROM outcomes as good as those conducted by expert surgeons in the long term.

METHODS

We enrolled 100 consecutive patients whose total navigated knee arthroplasty (TKA) was performed in our institution from 2008 to 2010. According to the principal surgeon's surgical experience, the patients were divided into three groups: (1) beginner surgeons, with no more than 30 previous knee replacement performances, (2) intermediate surgeons, with more than 30 but not more than 300, and (3) expert surgeons, with more than 300 knee replacements. Demographic data collected on the cohort included gender, laterality, age, and body mass index (BMI). The outcome measures assessed were Forgotten Joint Score (FJS), implant positioning, limb alignment, and prosthesis survival rate. A margin of equivalence of ± 18.5 points in the FJS scale was prespecified in terms of the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) to compare the FJS results obtained in the long period between the groups of interest.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 11.10 ± 0.78, 10.86 ± 0.66, and 11.30 ± 0.74 years, respectively, for each of the groups. The long-term FJS mean score was 80.86 ± 21.88, 81.36 ± 23.87, and 90.48 ± 14.65 for each group. The statistical analysis proved noninferiority and equivalence in terms of the FJS results reported in the long term by patients in Groups 1 or 2 compared to those in Group 3. More specifically, it has been proved that the mean difference between groups is within the interval of equivalence defined in terms of the MCID. The overall prostheses survival rate was 93.7%.

CONCLUSION

Navigated assisted TKA, under expert guidance, can be as effective when performed by beginner or intermediate surgeons as performed by senior surgeons regarding the accuracy of implant positioning, limb alignment, and long-term clinical outcome.

Muscle loaded stability reflects ligament-based stability in TKA: a cadaveric study

PURPOSE

This paper aims at evaluating the effects of muscle load on knee kinematics and stability after TKA and second at evaluating the effect of TKA surgery on knee kinematics and stability; and third, at correlating the stability in passive conditions and the stability in active, muscle loaded conditions.

METHODS

Fourteen fresh frozen cadaveric knee specimens were tested under passive and active condition with and without external loads involving a varus/valgus and internal/external rotational torque before and after TKA surgery using two in-house developed and previously validated test setups.

RESULTS

Introduction of muscle force resulted in increased valgus (0.98°) and internal rotation of the femur (4.64°). TKA surgery also affected the neutral path kinematics, resulting in more varus (1.25°) and external rotation of the femur (5.22°). All laxities were significantly reduced by the introduction of the muscle load and after implantation of the TKA. The presence of the implant significantly affects the active varus/valgus laxity. This contrasts with the rotational laxity, in which case the passive laxity is the main determinant for the active laxity. For the varus/valgus laxity, the passive laxity is also a significant predictor of the active laxity.

CONCLUSION

Knee stability is clearly affected by the presence of muscle load. This points to the relevance of appropriate rehabilitation with focus on avoiding muscular atrophy. At the same time, the functional, muscle loaded stability strongly relates to the passive, ligament-based stability. It remains therefore important to assess knee stability at the time of surgery, since the passive laxity is the only predictor for functional stability in the operating theatre.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Case series, Level IV.

Tibial forces are more useful than varus-valgus laxities for identifying and correcting overstuffing in kinematically aligned total knee arthroplasty

Identifying and correcting varus-valgus (V-V) malalignment of the tibial component is important when balancing a kinematically aligned total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Accordingly, the primary objective was to determine whether the tibial forces or V-V laxities are more sensitive to, and thus more useful for identifying and correcting, V-V malalignments of the tibial component that overstuff a compartment. Calipered kinematically aligned TKA was performed on nine human cadaveric knees. Medial and lateral tibial forces and V-V laxities were measured from 0° to 120° flexion with an unmodified reference tibial component and modified tibial components that introduced ±1° and ±2° V-V malalignments from the reference component to overstuff either the medial or lateral compartment. Changes in the tibial forces were most sensitive to V-V malalignments at 0° flexion (medial = 118 ± 34 N/deg valgus malalignment and lateral = 79 ± 20 N/deg varus malalignment). The varus and valgus laxities were most sensitive to V-V malalignments at 30° flexion (-0.6 ± 0.1 deg/deg varus malalignment) and 120° flexion (-0.4 ± 0.2 deg/deg valgus malalignment), respectively. The maximum average signal-to-noise ratios of the sensitivities in tibial forces and V-V laxities (ie, signals) to reported measurement errors using current intraoperative technologies (14 N and 0.7°) (ie, noise) were 8.4 deg^-1 and 0.9 deg^-1 , respectively. Because of the greater signal-to-noise ratios, measuring tibial forces is more useful than measuring V-V laxities for identifying and correcting V-V malalignments of the tibial component that overstuff a compartment. Clinical Significance: The sensitivities of tibial forces provide objective guidance to surgeons performing V-V recuts of the tibia.

The extensor efficiency of unicompartmental, bicompartmental, and total knee arthroplasty

Aims

Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) and bicompartmental knee arthroplasty (BCA) have been associated with improved functional outcomes compared to total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in suitable patients, although the reason is poorly understood. The aim of this study was to measure how the different arthroplasties affect knee extensor function.

Methods

Extensor function was measured for 16 cadaveric knees and then retested following the different arthroplasties. Eight knees underwent medial UKA then BCA, then posterior-cruciate retaining TKA, and eight underwent the lateral equivalents then TKA. Extensor efficiency was calculated for ranges of knee flexion associated with common activities of daily living. Data were analyzed with repeated measures analysis of variance (α = 0.05).

Results

Compared to native, there were no reductions in either extension moment or efficiency following UKA. Conversion to BCA resulted in a small decrease in extension moment between 70° and 90° flexion (p < 0.05), but when examined in the context of daily activity ranges of flexion, extensor efficiency was largely unaffected. Following TKA, large decreases in extension moment were measured at low knee flexion angles (p < 0.05), resulting in 12% to 43% reductions in extensor efficiency for the daily activity ranges.

Conclusion

This cadaveric study found that TKA resulted in inferior extensor function compared to UKA and BCA. This may, in part, help explain the reported differences in function and satisfaction differences between partial and total knee arthroplasty.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2021;10(1):1–9.

Improved mediolateral load distribution without adverse laxity pattern in robot-assisted knee arthroplasty compared to a standard manual measured resection technique

PURPOSE

Robot-assisted total knee arthroplasty (rTKA) remains in its infancy, is expensive but offers the promise of improved kinematic performance through precise bone cuts, with minimal soft tissue disruption, based on pre-resection soft tissue behaviour. This cadaveric study examined load transfer, soft tissue performance and radiographic indices for conventional (sTKA) versus rTKA. The null hypothesis was there would be no difference between the two modes of implantation.

METHODS

Whole (ten) cadaveric limbs were randomised to receive either robotic (rTKA, N = 5) or conventional measured resection (sTKA, N = 5) knee arthroplasty. Laxity patterns were established using validated fixed sensors (Verasense) with manual maximum displacement for six degrees of freedom. Tibiofemoral load and contact points were determined dynamically using remote sensor technology for medial and lateral compartments through a functional arc of motion (0-110 degrees of motion). Final component position was assessed using pre- and post-implantation CT.

RESULTS

No significant intergroup differences for laxity were found (n.s.). The rTKA group exhibited consistently balanced mediolateral load throughout the full arc with significantly reduced overall total load across the joint (for distinct points of measurement, p < 0.05). Despite using flexion-extension and mediolateral gap balancing with measured resection, the sTKA group failed to achieve balance in at least three points of the flexion arc. Post-operative CT confirmed satisfactory component alignment with no significant differences for positioning between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

This work found improved load sharing for rTKA when compared to conventional surgery for same donor knees. Laxity and CT determined final component positioning was not significantly different. The work supports the contention that robot-assisted TKA delivers improved tibiofemoral load sharing in time zero studies under defined conditions but such offers the promise of improved clinical performance and reduced implant wear.

Mid-flexion laxity in the asymptomatic native knee is predominantly present on the lateral side

PURPOSE

During total knee arthroplasty (TKA), an orthopaedic surgeon is focused on soft-tissue balance in extension (0°) and in flexion (90°). Patients with instability problems of the knee often report a feeling of instability during daily life activities, at around 30° knee flexion. There are no reference values available for knee laxity of healthy subjects in mid-flexion (30°) and flexion (90°) for comparison with the TKA population. Therefore, the aim was to quantify varus and valgus knee laxity in extension, mid-flexion and flexion in the asymptomatic native knee.

METHODS

In 40 healthy volunteers matched for age, gender and BMI with the TKA-population, varus and valgus knee laxity in extension (0°), mid-flexion (30°) and flexion (90°) was measured on low-dose radiographs. For each subject, one randomly selected knee was stressed in extension, mid-flexion and flexion (with 15 Nm) using a stress device.

RESULTS

Varus laxity in mid-flexion was higher than in extension and flexion (p < 0.01). Valgus laxity tended to be highest in mid-flexion laxity; however, no differences in knee laxity between flexion angles were seen (n.s.). Varus knee laxity in extension was higher in females than in males (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Mid-flexion laxity in the native knee is more prominent on the lateral side of the knee, while the medial side is more stable and constrained. Varus knee laxity in extension was shown to be higher in females than in males.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic Level II.

In vivo kinematics and ligamentous function of the knee during weight-bearing flexion: an investigation on mid-range flexion of the knee

PURPOSE

To investigate the in vivo femoral condyle motion and synergistic function of the ACL/PCL along the weight-bearing knee flexion.

METHODS

Twenty-two healthy human knees were imaged using a combined MRI and dual fluoroscopic imaging technique during a single-legged lunge (0°-120°). The medial and lateral femoral condyle translation and rotation (measured using geometric center axis-GCA), and the length changes of the ACL/PCL were analyzed at: low (0°-30°), mid-range (30°-90°) and high (90°-120°) flexion of the knee.

RESULTS

At low flexion (0°-30°), the strains of the ACL and the posterior-medial bundle of the PCL decreased. The medial condyle showed anterior translation and lateral condyle posterior translation, accompanied with a sharp increase in external GCA rotation (internal tibial rotation). As the knee continued flexion in mid-range (30°-90°), both ACL and PCL were slack (with negative strain values). The medial condyle moved anteriorly before 60° of flexion and then posteriorly, accompanied with a slow increase of GCA rotation. As the knee flexed in high flexion (90°-120°), only the PCL had increasingly strains. Both medial and lateral condyles moved posteriorly with a rather constant GCA rotation.

CONCLUSIONS

The ACL and PCL were shown to play a reciprocal and synergistic role during knee flexion. Mid-range reciprocal anterior-posterior femoral translation or laxity corresponds to minimal constraints of the ACL and PCL, and may represent a natural motion character of normal knees. The data could be used as a valuable reference when managing the mid-range "instability" and enhancing high flexion capability of the knee after TKAs.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

Analysis of differences in laxities and neutral positions from native after kinematically aligned TKA using cruciate retaining implants

One biomechanical goal of kinematically aligned total knee arthroplasty (KA TKA) is to achieve knee laxities and neutral positions that are not different from those of the native knee without soft tissue release. However, replacing the articular surfaces and menisci with implants of discrete sizes and average shapes and resecting the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) might prevent KA TKA from achieving this goal in the tibiofemoral joint. Accordingly, the objective was to determine whether either or both surgically induced changes cause differences in laxities and/or neutral positions from native using a cruciate retaining implant. Eight laxities and four neutral positions were measured from 0° to 120° flexion in 30° increments in 13 human cadaveric knees in three knee conditions: native, ACL-deficient, and KA TKA. After KA TKA, 5 of the 40 laxity measures (8 laxities × 5 flexion angles) and 6 of the 20 neutral position measures (4 neutral positions × 5 flexion angles) were statistically different from those of the native knee. The greatest differences in laxities from native after KA TKA occurred at 30° flexion in anterior translation (1.6 ± 2.1 mm increase, p < 0.0001); this difference was 1.7 ± 2.1 mm less than that in the ACL-d knee (p < 0.0001). The greatest difference in neutral positions from native after KA TKA occurred in anterior-posterior translation at 0° flexion (3.8 ± 1.9 mm anterior, p < 0.0001); this difference was 2.6 ± 1.9 mm greater than that in the ACL-d knee (p = 0.0002). Clinical Significance: These results indicate that the biomechanical goal of KA TKA is largely realized despite the two surgically induced changes. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 37:358-369, 2019.

A load-measuring device can achieve fine-tuning of mediolateral load at knee arthroplasty but may lead to a more lax knee state

PURPOSE

A balanced knee arthroplasty should optimise survivorship and performance. Equilibration of medial and lateral femorotibial load requires guided judicious pericapsular ligament release. The null hypothesis was that there would be no difference between use of a tensiometer device and a remote load sensor final load transfer across the joint through functional arc of motion.

METHODS

A cadaveric study, using eight knees, was performed to define the impact of an established gap distraction device against load sensor-aimed soft tissue release in a TKA setting. Using validated measures of laxity in six degrees of freedom and true real-time load sensing four states were examined: native knee, TKA using spacer blocks (TKA), TKA with soft tissue release aided by a monogram tensiometer (TKA-T) and finally where load across the tibiofemoral articulation remains unbalanced final soft tissue release using a sensor device (TKA-OS).

RESULTS

The laxity pattern was equivalent for TKA-T and TKA-OS. However, in only four of these seven knees despite the tensiometer confirming equivalence of rectangular flexion-extension gap dimensions and centralisation of collateral ligament distraction, there remained a > 15lb medial to lateral load difference for at least one point of the flexion arc. This was corrected by further final soft tissue release guided by the OS sensor device in the final three knees.

CONCLUSION

Tensiometer-guided soft tissue release at two points of flexion failed to achieve balance for three out of seven knee arthroplasty procedures. Sensor technology guided final soft tissue balancing to equilibrate load across the joint through full arc of motion. This work argues for the role of continuous sensor readings to guide the soft tissue balancing during total knee arthroplasty.

Increases in tibial force imbalance but not changes in tibiofemoral laxities are caused by varus-valgus malalignment of the femoral component in kinematically aligned TKA

PURPOSE

The purposes of this study were to quantify the increase in tibial force imbalance (i.e. magnitude of difference between medial and lateral tibial forces) and changes in laxities caused by 2° and 4° of varus-valgus (V-V) malalignment of the femoral component in kinematically aligned total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and use the results to detemine sensitivities to errors in making the distal femoral resections. Because V-V malalignment would introduce the greatest changes in the alignment of the articular surfaces at 0° flexion, the hypotheses were that the greatest increases in tibial force imbalance would occur at 0° flexion, that primarily V-V laxity would significantly change at this flexion angle, and that the tibial force imbalance would increase and laxities would change in proportion to the degree of V-V malalignment.

METHODS

Kinematically aligned TKA was performed on ten human cadaveric knee specimens using disposable manual instruments without soft tissue release. One 3D-printed reference femoral component, with unmodified geometry, was aligned to restore the native distal and posterior femoral joint lines. Four 3D-printed femoral components, with modified geometry, introduced V-V malalignments of 2° and 4° from the reference component. Medial and lateral tibial forces were measured during passive knee flexion-extension between 0° to 120° using a custom tibial force sensor. Eight laxities were measured from 0° to 120° flexion using a six degree-of-freedom load application system.

RESULTS

With the tibial component kinematically aligned, the increase in the tibial force imbalance from that of the reference component at 0° of flexion was sensitive to the degree of V-V malalignment of the femoral component. Sensitivities were 54 N/deg (medial tibial force increasing > lateral tibial force) (p < 0.0024) and 44 N/deg (lateral tibial force increasing > medial tibial force) (p < 0.0077) for varus and valgus malalignments, respectively. Varus-valgus malalignment did not significantly change varus, internal-external rotation, anterior-posterior, and compression-distraction laxities from 0° to 120° flexion. At only 30° of flexion, 4° of varus malalignment increased valgus laxity 1° (p = 0.0014).

CONCLUSION

At 0° flexion, V-V malalignment of the femoral component caused the tibial force imbalance to increase significantly, whereas the laxities were relatively unaffected. Because tibial force imbalance has the potential to adversely affect patient-reported outcomes and satisfaction, surgeons should strive to limit errors in resecting the distal femoral condyles to within ± 0.5 mm which in turn limits the average increase in tibial force imbalance to 68 N. Because laxities were generally unaffected, instability resulting from large increases in laxity is not a clinical concern within the ± 4° range tested.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, Level II.

Bi-cruciate substituting total knee arthroplasty provides varus-valgus stability throughout the midflexion range

BACKGROUND

Proper soft tissue balance is crucial for a successful clinical outcome after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Bi-cruciate substituting (BCS)-TKA has been developed to more closely approximate normal knee characteristics. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate midflexion laxity before and after BCS-TKA using a navigation system, and assess the correlation between intraoperative laxity and the maximum flexion angle after surgery.

METHODS

Fifty-one knees in 46 patients with osteoarthritis replaced with BCS prosthesis were assessed. Manual mild passive internal-external rotational and varus-valgus stress was applied to the knees, and the maximum total laxity was measured automatically by a navigation system before and after TKA. The correlations with the range of motion (ROM) were evaluated using Spearman's correlation coefficients (ρ).

RESULTS

Internal-external stress assessment revealed no statistically significant difference at each flexion angle before and after BCS-TKA. In contrast, the varus-valgus stress assessment revealed that BCS-TKA had significantly decreased varus-valgus laxity from preoperative levels at 20-120° flexion angles. Furthermore, the maximum flexion angle at six months after surgery significantly correlated with the intraoperative laxity at deep flexion range.

CONCLUSION

BCS-TKA stabilized varus-valgus laxity to better than preoperative levels at midflexion range.

Internal-external malalignment of the femoral component in kinematically aligned total knee arthroplasty increases tibial force imbalance but does not change laxities of the tibiofemoral joint

PURPOSE

The purposes of this study were to quantify the increase in tibial force imbalance (i.e. magnitude of difference between medial and lateral tibial forces) and changes in laxities caused by  2° and 4° of internal-external (I-E) malalignment of the femoral component in kinematically aligned total knee arthroplasty. Because I-E malalignment would introduce the greatest changes to the articular surfaces near 90° of flexion, the hypotheses were that the tibial force imbalance would be significantly increased near 90° flexion and that primarily varus-valgus laxity would be affected near 90° flexion.

METHODS

Kinematically aligned TKA was performed on ten human cadaveric knee specimens using disposable manual instruments without soft tissue release. One 3D-printed reference femoral component, with unmodified geometry, was aligned to restore the native distal and posterior femoral joint lines. Four 3D-printed femoral components, with modified geometry, introduced I-E malalignments of 2° and 4° from the reference component. Medial and lateral tibial forces were measured from 0° to 120° flexion using a custom tibial force sensor. Bidirectional laxities in four degrees of freedom were measured from 0° to 120° flexion using a custom load application system.

RESULTS

Tibial force imbalance increased the greatest at 60° flexion where a regression analysis against the degree of I-E malalignment yielded sensitivities (i.e. slopes) of 30 N/° (medial tibial force > lateral tibial force) and 10 N/° (lateral tibial force > medial tibial force) for internal and external malalignments, respectively. Valgus laxity increased significantly with the 4° external component with the greatest increase of 1.5° occurring at 90° flexion (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

With the tibial component correctly aligned, I-E malalignment of the femoral component caused significant increases in tibial force imbalance. Minimizing I-E malalignment lowers the increase in the tibial force imbalance. By keeping the resection thickness of each posterior femoral condyle to within ± 0.5 mm of the thickness of the respective posterior region of the femoral component, the increase in imbalance can be effectively limited to 38 N. Generally laxities were unaffected within the ± 4º range tested indicating that instability is not a clinical concern and that manual testing of laxities is not useful to detect I-E malalignment.

Sagittal flexion arc evaluation for a modern generation single-radius femoral component design

Single-radius femoral total knee design aims to deliver improved kinematic behaviour when compared to the standard two-radii geometry. This study has evaluated the behaviour, through a functional range of motion in the sagittal plane, of a single-radius femoral component compared to a dual-radius standard knee construct. Particular focus was placed on how the flexion axes of the native and replaced knee approximated to the transepicondylar axis through a loaded navigated knee design. Significant differences in flexion arcs were noted between the native and total knee arthroplasty state. These arcs were not uniform in all knees and did not display single-radius behaviour. There were no significant differences in the location of flexion axes in the native and total knee arthroplasty knee. Both exhibited similar posterior and inferior transverse axes of motion with respect to the anatomical epicondylar axis. This work has cast doubt on the reliability under loaded conditions of the single-radius concept, but the close proximity of the flexion axes of each replaced knee in relation to the functional flexion axis of the native knee may be the true basis of this purported improved kinematic performance.

Internal femoral component rotation adversely influences load transfer in total knee arthroplasty: a cadaveric navigated study using the Verasense device

PURPOSE AND HYPOTHESIS

Correct femoral component rotation at knee arthroplasty influences patellar tracking and may determine function at extremes of movement. Additionally, such malrotation may deleteriously influence flexion/extension gap geometry and soft tissue balancing kinematics. Little is known about the effect of subtle rotational change upon load transfer across the tibiofemoral articulation. Our null hypothesis was that femoral component rotation would not influence load across this joint in predictable manner.

METHODS

A cadaveric study was performed to examine load transfer using the orthosensor device, respecting laxity patterns in 6° of motion, to examine load across the medial and lateral compartments across a full arc of motion. Mixed-effect modelling allowed for quantification of the effect upon load with internal and external femoral component rotation in relation to a datum in a modern single-radius cruciate-retaining primary knee design.

RESULTS

No significant change in maximal laxity was found between different femoral rotational states. Internal rotation of the femoral component resulted in significant increase in medial compartment load transfer for knee flexion including and beyond 60°. External rotation of the femoral component within the limits studied did not influence tibiofemoral load transfer.

CONCLUSIONS

Internal rotation of the femoral component will adversely influence medial compartment load transfer and could lead to premature polyethylene wear on the medial side.

Femoral footprint of the popliteus tendon may be at the risk of damage during total knee arthroplasty

PURPOSE

The present study focused on the prevalence of incidental excision of the femoral footprint of the popliteus tendon during total knee arthroplasty and its associated risk factors.

METHODS

A total of 275 knee arthroplasties were performed for 226 patients with varus knee osteoarthritis. The status of the femoral footprint of the popliteus tendon was intraoperatively evaluated and classified into three groups (preserved, partially excised, and completely excised), and the prevalence of the excision was identified. Femoral component size, the thickness of the resected distal femoral condyle, and preoperative patient demographic data were compared for the three groups. Ordinal logistic regression analysis was performed to reveal risk factors associated with the excision.

RESULTS

The femoral footprint of the popliteus tendon was preserved in 132 knees (48.0 %), partially excised in 94 knees (34.2 %) and completely excised in 49 knees (17.8 %). The ordinal logistic regression analysis revealed thicker resection of the distal femoral condyle (p < 0.0001) and shorter body height (p = 0.0266) to be the independent risk factors for the excision.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidental partial or complete excision of the femoral footprint of the popliteus tendon was identified in approximately half of the evaluated knees. Thicker resection of the distal femoral condyle and shorter body height were the most significant risk factors for the excision.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Case-control study, Level III.

An in vitro analysis of medial structures and a medial soft tissue reconstruction in a constrained condylar total knee arthroplasty

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to quantify the medial soft tissue contributions to stability following constrained condylar (CC) total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and determine whether a medial reconstruction could restore stability to a soft tissue-deficient, CC-TKA knee.

METHODS

Eight cadaveric knees were mounted in a robotic system and tested at 0°, 30°, 60°, and 90° of flexion with ±50 N anterior-posterior force, ±8 Nm varus-valgus, and ±5 Nm internal-external torque. The deep and superficial medial collateral ligaments (dMCL, sMCL) and posteromedial capsule (PMC) were transected and their relative contributions to stabilising the applied loads were quantified. After complete medial soft tissue transection, a reconstruction using a semitendinosus tendon graft was performed, and the effect on kinematic behaviour under equivocal conditions was measured.

RESULTS

In the CC-TKA knee, the sMCL was the major medial restraint in anterior drawer, internal-external, and valgus rotation. No significant differences were found between the rotational laxities of the reconstructed knee to the pre-deficient state for the arc of motion examined. The relative contribution of the reconstruction was higher in valgus rotation at 60° than the sMCL; otherwise, the contribution of the reconstruction was similar to that of the sMCL.

CONCLUSION

There is contention whether a CC-TKA can function with medial deficiency or more constraint is required. This work has shown that a CC-TKA may not provide enough stability with an absent sMCL. However, in such cases, combining the CC-TKA with a medial soft tissue reconstruction may be considered as an alternative to a hinged implant.

Tibiofemoral forces for the native and post-arthroplasty knee: relationship to maximal laxity through a functional arc of motion

PURPOSE

Accurate soft tissue balance must be achieved to improve functional outcome after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Sensor-integrated tibial trials have been introduced that allow real-time measurement of tibiofemoral kinematics during TKA. This study examined the interplay between tibiofemoral force and laxity, under defined intraoperative conditions, so as to quantify the kinematic behaviour of the CR femoral single-radius knee.

METHODS

TKA was undertaken in eight loaded cadaveric specimens. Computer navigation in combination with sensor data defined laxity and tibiofemoral contact force, respectively, during manual laxity testing. Fixed-effect linear modelling allowed quantification of the effect for flexion angle, direction of movement and TKA implantation upon the knee.

RESULTS

An inverse relationship between laxity and contact force was demonstrated. With flexion, laxity increased as contact force decreased under manual stress. Change in laxity was significant beyond 30° for coronal plane laxity and beyond 60° for rotatory laxity (p < 0.01). Rotational stress in mid-flexion demonstrated the greatest mismatch in inter-compartmental forces. Contact point position over the tibial sensor demonstrated paradoxical roll-forward with knee flexion.

CONCLUSION

Traditional balancing techniques may not reliably equate to uniform laxity or contact forces across the tibiofemoral joint through a range of flexion and argue for the role of per-operative sensor use to aid final balancing of the knee.

Does Maximal External Tibial Component Rotation Influence Tibiofemoral Load Distribution in the Primary Knee Arthroplasty Setting: A Comparison of Neutral vs Maximal Anatomical External Rotatory States

BACKGROUND

Tibial component rotation at time of knee arthroplasty can influence conformity, load transmission across the polyethylene surface, and perhaps ultimately determined survivorship. Optimal tibial component rotation on the cut surface is reliant on standard per operative manual stressing. This subjective assessment aims to balance constraint and stability of the articulation through a full arc of movement.

METHODS

Using a cadaveric model, computer navigation and under defined, previously validated loaded conditions mimicking the in vivo setting, the influence of maximal tibial component external rotation compared with the neutral state was examined for changes in laxity and tibiofemoral continuous load using 3D displacement measurement and an orthosensor continuous load sensor implanted within the polyethylene spacer in a simulated single radius total knee arthroplasty.

RESULTS

No significant difference was found throughout arc of motion (0-115 degrees of flexion) for maximal varus and/or valgus or rotatory laxity between the 2 states. The neutral state achieved equivalence for mediolateral load distribution at each point of flexion. We have found that external rotation of the tibial component increased medial compartment load in comparison with the neutral position. Compared with the neutral state, external rotation consistently effected a marginal, but not significant reduction in lateral load under similar loading conditions. The effects were most pronounced in midflexion.

CONCLUSION

On the basis of these findings, we would advocate for the midtibial tubercle point to determine tibial component rotation and caution against component external rotation.

Varus-valgus stability at 90° flexion correlates with the stability at midflexion range more widely than that at 0° extension in posterior-stabilized total knee arthroplasty

INTRODUCTION

Midflexion stability can potentially improve the outcome of total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the correlation between varus-valgus stability at 0° of extension and 90° of flexion and that at the midflexion range in posterior-stabilized (PS)-TKA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-three knees that underwent PS-TKA were evaluated. Manual mild passive varus-valgus stress was applied to the knees, and the postoperative maximum varus-valgus stability was measured every 10° throughout range of motion, using a navigation system. Correlations between the stability at 0°, 90° of flexion, and that at each midflexion angle were evaluated using Spearman's correlation coefficients.

RESULTS

The stability of 0° modestly correlated with that of 10°-20°, but it did not significantly correlate with that of 30°-80°. However, the stability of 90° strongly correlated with that of 60°-80°, modestly correlated with that of 40°-50°, weakly correlated with that of 20°-30°, and did not correlate with that of 10°.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study confirmed the importance of acquiring stability at 90° flexion to achieve midflexion stability in PS-TKA. However, initial flexion stability did not strongly correlate with the stability at either 0° or 90°. Our findings can provide useful information for understanding varus-valgus stability throughout the range of motion in PS-TKA. Attention to soft tissue balancing is necessary to stabilize a knee at the initial flexion range in PS-TKA.

Dynamic knee behaviour: does the knee deformity change as it is flexed-an assessment and classification with computer navigation

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to assess the kinematics of arthritic knees prior to TKA. The hypothesis was that the arthritic knee follows distinct patterns with regard to deformity in coronal plane as it flexes from extended position.

METHOD

Data from 585 consecutive arthritic knees that had undergone TKA using two non-image-based navigation systems were included in the study. Coronal plane alignment given by the femoro-tibial mechanical angle (FTMA) was recorded in extension, 30°, 60°, 90° and maximum flexion prior to making any bony cuts or ligamentous releases.

RESULTS

Complete data were available for 512 (87.5 %) of arthritic knees. It was found that pre-implant arthritic knees behaved in different distinct patterns from full extension to 90° flexion. These patterns in FTMA from extension through to 90° of flexion were classified into 4 major types (1, 2, 3, and 4) and 8 subgroups (1A, 1B, 2A, 2B, 3, 4A, 4B, 4C) for varus and valgus knees. Beyond 90° of flexion, there were no distinct or consistent patterns. There were differences between varus and valgus knee deformities not only in overall numbers (73.8 % varus vs. 21.1 % valgus) but also in kinematic behaviour. Only 14.1 % of total knees had a consistent deformity (Type 1A) which remained the same throughout the range of flexion. 14.1 % knees actually become opposite deformity as the knee flexes; thus, varus becomes valgus and valgus becomes varus as the knee flexes (Type 3 and 4C).

CONCLUSION

This study has observed and categorised distinct patterns which arthritic knees follow in the coronal plane as it flexes. This dynamic change during flexion will have bearing on collateral releases that are traditionally done based on deformity in extension or 90° flexion mainly. This may be the underlying cause of flexion instability especially for Types 3 and 4C knees if collateral soft tissue release is done based on deformity in extension. Full significance of this remains unknown and will need further investigation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Navigation-based tibial rotation at 90° of flexion is associated with better range of motion in navigated total knee arthroplasty

PURPOSE

In clinical practice, people with better femorotibial rotation in the flexed position often achieve a favourable postoperative maximum flexion angle (MFA). However, no objective data have been reported to support this clinical observation. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the correlation between the amount of intraoperative rotation and the pre- and postoperative flexion angles.

METHODS

Fifty-five patients with varus osteoarthritis undergoing computer-assisted posterior-stabilized total knee arthroplasty (TKA) were enrolled. After registration, rotational stress was applied towards the knee joint, and the rotational angles were recorded by using a navigation system at maximum extension and 90° of flexion. After implantation, rotational stress was applied for a second time, and the angles were recorded once more. The MFA was measured before surgery and 1 month after surgery, and the correlation between the amount of femorotibial rotation during surgery and the MFA was statistically evaluated.

RESULTS

Although the amount of tibial rotation at maximum extension was not correlated with the MFA, the amount of tibial rotation at 90° of flexion after registration was positively correlated with the pre- and postoperative MFA (both p < 0.005). However, no significant relationship was observed between the amount of tibial rotation after implantation and the postoperative MFA (n.s.).

CONCLUSION

The results showed that better femorotibial rotation at 90° of flexion is associated with a favourable postoperative MFA, suggesting that the flexibility of the surrounding soft tissues is an important factor for obtaining a better MFA, which has important clinical relevance. Hence, further evaluation of navigation-based kinematics during TKA may provide useful information on MFA.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Diagnostic studies, development of diagnostic criteria in a consecutive series of patients, and a universally applied "gold" standard, Level II.

The superficial medial collateral ligament is the primary medial restraint to knee laxity after cruciate-retaining or posterior-stabilised total knee arthroplasty: effects of implant type and partial release

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to quantify the contributions of medial soft tissues to stability following cruciate-retaining (CR) or posterior-stabilised (PS) total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

METHODS

Using a robotic system, eight cadaveric knees were subjected to ±90-N anterior-posterior force, ±5-Nm internal-external and ±8-Nm varus-valgus torques at various flexion angles. The knees were tested intact and then with CR and PS implants, and successive cuts of the deep and superficial medial collateral ligaments (dMCL, sMCL) and posteromedial capsule (PMC) quantified the percentage contributions of each structure to restraining the applied loads.

RESULTS

In implanted knees, the sMCL restrained valgus rotation (62 % across flexion angles), anterior-posterior drawer (24 and 10 %, respectively) and internal-external rotation (22 and 37 %). Changing from CR TKA to PS TKA increased the load on the sMCL when resisting valgus loads. The dMCL restrained 11 % of external and 13 % of valgus rotations, and the PMC was significant at low flexion angles.

CONCLUSIONS

This work has shown that medial release in the varus knee should be minimised, as it may inadvertently result in a combined laxity pattern. There is increasing interest in preserving constitutional varus in TKA, and this work argues for preservation of the sMCL to afford the surgeon consistent restraint and maintain a balanced knee for the patient.

Influence of increasing construct constraint in the presence of posterolateral deficiency at knee replacement: A biomechanical study

When faced with posterolateral corner (PLC) deficiency, surgeons must choose a total knee replacement (TKR) construct that provides the appropriate level of constraint. This should match the internal constraint of the device to the soft tissue host laxity pattern. Little guidance is available peroperatively, with factors influencing final component choice remaining ill defined. This study aimed to quantify the effect of PLC insufficiency on the "envelope of laxity" (EoL) after TKR and the effect of increasingly component constraint upon knee behavior through a functional arc of flexion. Using computer navigation, mixed effect modeling and loaded cadaveric legs--laxity was quantified under separate states: the native knee, after implantation of a posterior stabilized (PS)-TKR, after sectioning the lateral (fibular) collateral ligament and popliteus tendon (PS-TKR-PLC), and after re-implantation with a semi-constrained "total stabilized" knee replacement (TS-TKR). Laxity was quantified from 0 to 110° of flexion for anterior draw, varus-valgus, and internal-external rotation. Implantation of the PS-TKR was consistently associated with increased constraint when compared to the native knee. PLC sectioning led to significantly increased laxity during varus stress from mid to deep flexion. Revision to a TS-TKR construct restored constraint mimicking that of the primary state but only for the arc of motion 0-90°. In a posterolateral deficient state, a fixed bearing semi-constrained TS-TKR restored the knee to near normal kinematics but this was only achieved from an arc of motion 0-90° of flexion. At higher flexion angles, there remained an unfavorable laxity pattern with varus stress opening.

The limits of passive motion are variable between and unrelated within normal tibiofemoral joints

Patient-to-patient differences should be accounted for in both clinical evaluations and computational models of knee laxity. Accordingly, the objectives were to determine how variable the laxities are between knees by determining the range of the internal-external (I-E), varus-valgus (V-V), anterior-posterior (A-P), and compression-distraction (C-D) limits of passive motion, and how related the laxities are within a knee by determining whether these limits are correlated with one another. The limits in I-E (± 3 Nm), V-V (± 5 Nm), A-P (± 45 N), and C-D (± 100 N) were measured in 10 normal human cadaveric knees at 0° to 120° flexion in 15° increments using a six degree-of-freedom load application system. The ranges from 15° to 120° flexion of the I-E limits were greater than 3.6°, of the A-P limits were greater than 1.8 mm, and of the varus limits were greater than 1.4°. The ranges from 30° to 120° flexion of the distraction limits were greater than 2.0 mm. Twenty-four of the 28 pair-wise comparisons between the limits had a correlation coefficient less than 0.65. These results demonstrate that a patient-specific approach, including all degrees of freedom of interest, is necessary during clinical evaluations of laxity and when creating and validating computational models of the tibiofemoral joint.

Native Knee Laxities at 0°, 45°, and 90° of Flexion and Their Relationship to the Goal of the Gap-Balancing Alignment Method of Total Knee Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Gap-balancing is an alignment method for total knee arthroplasty with the goal of creating uniform tension in the periarticular soft-tissue restraints and equal laxities throughout the arc of flexion. However, there is little evidence that achieving equal laxities prevents either overly tight or overly loose soft-tissue restraints after total knee arthroplasty. Accordingly, the purpose of the present study was to determine whether the laxities at 0°, 45°, and 90° of flexion are equal in the native knee.

METHODS

Seven different laxities were measured at 0°, 45°, and 90° of flexion in ten fresh-frozen native cadaveric knees (with intact menisci, cartilage, and ligaments) by applying loads of ±5 Nm in varus-valgus rotation, ±3 Nm in internal-external rotation, 100 N in distraction, and ±45 N in anterior-posterior translation with use of a six-degrees-of-freedom load application system.

RESULTS

The mean laxities (and standard deviations) at 45° of flexion were 1.7° ± 0.6° greater in varus, 0.9° ± 0.4° greater in valgus, 10.2° ± 2.7° greater in internal rotation, 10.1° ± 2.0° greater in external rotation, 1.7 ± 1.0 mm greater in distraction translation, and 3.3 ± 1.5 mm greater in anterior translation than those at 0° of flexion. The mean laxities at 90° of flexion were 2.5° ± 0.8° greater in varus, 1.0° ± 0.5° greater in valgus, 10.0° ± 4.6° greater in internal rotation, 10.1° ± 4.5° greater in external rotation, 1.8 ± 0.7 mm greater in distraction, and 1.6 ± 1.2 mm greater in anterior translation than those at 0° of flexion. The mean anterior translation at 90° of flexion was 1.7 ± 0.9 mm less than that at 45° of flexion.

CONCLUSIONS

Because five of the seven laxities were at least 1.7° or 1.6 mm greater at both 45° and 90° of flexion than those at 0° of flexion, the laxities of the native knee measured in this study are unequal at these flexion angles and therefore do not support the goal of gap-balancing in total knee arthroplasty.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

One possible disadvantage of changing the native laxities at 45° and 90° of flexion to match those at 0° of flexion in a total knee arthroplasty is the overly tight soft-tissue restraints relative to those of the native knee, which patients may perceive as pain, stiffness, and/or limited flexion.

Isolated popliteus tendon injury does not lead to abnormal laxity in posterior-stabilised total knee arthroplasty

PURPOSE

The popliteus tendon is crucial to postero-lateral stability and prone to iatrogenic injury intra-operatively. Its role in the stability of the replaced knee remains contentious. The aim of this study was to use computer navigation to quantify the effect of popliteus sectioning on the 'envelope of laxity' (EoL) offered by a posterior-stabilised (PS) total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and compare with that of the native knee.

METHODS

Loaded cadaveric legs were mounted on a purpose built rig. EoL was measured in 3 degrees of freedom using computer navigation. Knees were subjectively stressed in varus/valgus, internal/external rotation and anterior draw. This was performed preoperatively, during TKA and after sectioning of the popliteus tendon. Real-time data were recorded at 0°, 30°, 60° and 90° of flexion as the operating surgeon stressed the knee in 3 degrees of freedom to its subjective endpoint. Mixed-effect modelling was used to quantify the effects of intervention on degree of laxity.

RESULTS

In all conditions, there was an increase in laxity with knee flexion. Insertion of a PS TKA resulted in increased constraint, particularly in rotation. Sectioning of the popliteus did not result in a significant increase in knee laxity to 90º of knee flexion. However, at deeper flexion angles, tendon sectioning overcame the constraints of the implant resulting in a significant increase in rotatory and varus/valgus laxity towards the native condition.

CONCLUSION

These findings support the view that certain current designs of PS knee replacement can constrain the knee in flexion in the absence of postero-lateral deficiency. For this implant, isolated sectioning of the popliteus tendon did not substantially generate abnormal knee laxity.

No statistically significant kinematic difference found between a cruciate-retaining and posterior-stabilised Triathlon knee arthroplasty

The aim of this study was to compare the maximum laxity conferred by the cruciate-retaining (CR) and posterior-stabilised (PS) Triathlon single-radius total knee arthroplasty (TKA) for anterior drawer, varus–valgus opening and rotation in eight cadaver knees through a defined arc of flexion (0º to 110º). The null hypothesis was that the limits of laxity of CR- and PS-TKAs are not significantly different.

The investigation was undertaken in eight loaded cadaver knees undergoing subjective stress testing using a measurement rig. Firstly the native knee was tested prior to preparation for CR-TKA and subsequently for PS-TKA implantation. Surgical navigation was used to track maximal displacements/rotations at 0º, 30º, 60º, 90º and 110° of flexion. Mixed-effects modelling was used to define the behaviour of the TKAs.

The laxity measured for the CR- and PS-TKAs revealed no statistically significant differences over the studied flexion arc for the two versions of TKA. Compared with the native knee both TKAs exhibited slightly increased anterior drawer and decreased varus-valgus and internal-external roational laxities. We believe further study is required to define the clinical states for which the additional constraint offered by a PS-TKA implant may be beneficial.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015; 97-B:642–8.

Lack of evidence to support present medial release methods in total knee arthroplasty

PURPOSE

The aim of this review was to identify a reliable sequential medial release protocol for restoration of soft tissue balance in total knee arthroplasty of the varus osteoarthritic knee and to allow for improved intraoperative decision-making.

METHOD

Current medial release sequences and applicability based upon pre-operative deformity have been reviewed. Furthermore, risks associated with over release, and the necessity of medial release, are discussed.

RESULTS

The different medial release sequences are discussed in relation to pre-operative deformity, along with potential complications associated with medial release. It was found that release sequences may include the deep and superficial components of the medial collateral ligament, the posteromedial capsule, the posterior oblique ligament, the pes anserinus (pes A), and tendons of the semimembranosus and medial gastrocnemius muscle. The sequences described were found to vary substantially between studies, and very few studies had systematically quantified the effect of each release on balance.

CONCLUSION

While medial release is the standard intraoperative mode of balancing, there is a lack of evidence to support current methods. The correct method for defining intraoperatively the sequence, extent and magnitude of releases required remains ill-defined. It could be argued that the classic extensive medial release may be unnecessary and may be associated with iatrogenic injury to the pes A and saphenous nerve, instability and abnormal knee kinematics. Minimal medial release may allow for improved soft tissue balancing leading ultimately to improved functional outcome.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

V (expert opinion).

Rotational laxity and collateral ligament laxity following total knee arthroplasty with rotating platform

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate laxity in knees with pre-operative (preop) valgus alignment compared to knees with pre-operative varus alignment after total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

METHODS

This was a retrospective study including 81 patients, with six years follow-up, for pre-operative valgus- or varus alignment of the leg. All patients had been supplied with the same cruciate retaining (CR) TKA with rotating platform. Clinical findings were assessed by KSS, OKS and IKDC 2000 score. Rotational knee laxity was evaluated by a validated instrument (Laxitester®) with 2 Nm torque in 30° flexion. Collateral ligament laxity was tested manually in 30° flexion with a bending moment of approximately 5 Nm. Biomechanical results were compared to the contralateral side.

RESULTS

Thirty-one patients had a preop valgus alignment of 8.96° and 50 patients a varus leg axis of 4.99° in the mean. In the preop valgus knees rotational analysis showed an increased laxity of 10.7° compared to preop varus knees (p = 0.001). There was no significant difference in medial (valgus 2.6 mm, varus 2.5 mm) and lateral (valgus 2.8 mm, varus 2.7 mm) laxity. KSS and OKS showed no significant differences in the follow-up results. In the IKDC 2000 objective score 50 % of the preop varus knees and 25.8 % of the preop valgus knees were classified as nearly normal. The difference in the IKDC objective was highly significant (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Preop valgus knees show a significantly increased rotational laxity but no increased collateral ligament laxity compared to pre-operative varus knees six years after TKA with rotating platform. There is a significant difference in IKDC objective.

Femoral and tibial insert downsizing increases the laxity envelope in TKA

PURPOSE

This study examines the effect of component downsizing in a modern total knee arthroplasty (TKA) system on the laxity envelope of the knee throughout flexion.

METHODS

A robotic testing system was utilized to measure laxity envelopes in the implanted knee by in the anterior-posterior (AP), medial-lateral (ML), internal-external (IE) and varus-valgus (VV) directions. Five fresh-frozen cadavers were tested with a modern cruciate retaining TKA implantation, a 1-mm thinner polyethylene insert and a femoral component 2 mm smaller in the AP dimension.

RESULTS

The downsized tibial insert was more lax throughout the flexion arc with up to 2.0 mm more laxity in the AP direction at full extension, a 43.8% increase over the original implantation. A thinner insert consistently increased laxity throughout the arc of flexion in all degrees of freedom. Downsizing the femoral component resulted in 8.5 mm increase in AP laxity at 90°, a 73.9% increase. In mid-flexion, downsizing the femur produced similar laxity values to the downsized insert in AP, ML, IE and VV directions.

CONCLUSION

Downsizing the TKA components had significant effects on laxity throughout flexion. Downsizing a femoral component 2 mm had an equivalent increase in laxity in mid-flexion as downsizing the tibial insert 1 mm. This study quantifies the importance of choosing the appropriate implant component size, having the appropriate size available and the effect of downsizing. The laxity of the implanted knee contributes to how the implant feels to the patient and ultimately the patient's satisfaction with their new knee.