Evaluation of a custom device for the treatment of flexion contractures after total knee arthroplasty

Management of fixed flexion contracture in primary total knee arthroplasty: recent systematic review

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to systematically review the literature and identify the surgical management strategy for fixed flexion contracture in primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) surgery, pre-, intra-, and post-operatively. Secondary endpoints were etiologies and factors favoring flexion contracture.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Searches were carried out in November 2023 in several databases (Pubmed, Scopus, Cochrane, and Google Scholar) using the following keywords: "flexion contracture AND TKA", "fixed flexion deformity AND TKA", "posterior capsular release AND TKA", "posterior capsulotomy in TKA", "distal femoral resection AND TKA". Study quality was assessed using the STROBE checklist and the Downs and Black score. Data concerning factors or strategies leading to the development or prevention of flexion contracture after TKA were extracted from the text, figures, and tables of the included references. The effect of each predictive factor on flexion contracture after TKA was recorded.

RESULTS

Thirty-one studies were identified to meet the inclusion and exclusion criteria. These studies described a variety of preoperative and intraoperative factors that contribute to the development or correction of postoperative flexion contracture. The only clearly identified predictor of postoperative flexion contracture was preoperative flexion contracture. Intraoperative steps described to correct flexion contracture were: soft-tissue balancing (in posterior and medial compartments), distal femoral resection, flexion of the femoral component, and posterior condylar resection. However, no study has investigated these factors in a global model.

DISCUSSION

This review identified various pre-, intra-, and post-operative factors predictive of post-operative flexion contracture. In practice, these factors are likely to interact, and it is therefore crucial to further investigate them in a comprehensive model to develop an algorithm for the management of flexion contracture.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Arthrofibrosis After Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Critical Analysis Review

» Arthrofibrosis after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is the new formation of excessive scar tissue that results in limited ROM, pain, and functional deficits.» The diagnosis of arthrofibrosis is based on the patient's history, clinical examination, absence of alternative diagnoses from diagnostic testing, and operative findings. Imaging is helpful in ruling out specific causes of stiffness after TKA. A biopsy is not indicated, and no biomarkers of arthrofibrosis exist.» Arthrofibrosis pathophysiology is multifactorial and related to aberrant activation and proliferation of myofibroblasts that primarily deposit type I collagen in response to a proinflammatory environment. Transforming growth factor-beta signaling is the best established pathway involved in arthrofibrosis after TKA.» Management includes both nonoperative and operative modalities. Physical therapy is most used while revision arthroplasty is typically reserved as a last resort. Additional investigation into specific pathophysiologic mechanisms can better inform targeted therapeutics.

Predictors of Recurrent Flexion Contracture after Total Knee Arthroplasty in Osteoarthritic Knees with Greater Than 15° Flexion Contracture

Background

This study aimed to analyze the risk factors that predict recurrent flexion contracture (FC) after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in osteoarthritic knees with FC ≥ 15°.

Methods

Data from a consecutive cohort comprising 237 TKAs in 187 patients with degenerative osteoarthritis, preoperative FC ≥ 15°, and a minimum follow-up period of 2 years were retrospectively reviewed. Preoperative FC was corrected intraoperatively from 0° to 5°. The incidence of recurrent FC (FC ≥ 10°) at 2 years postoperatively was investigated. Potential risk factors predicting recurrent FC including age, sex, body mass index, unilateral TKA, severity of preoperative FC, 3-month postoperative residual FC, γ angle, change in posterior femoral offset ratio, and lumbar degenerative kyphosis (LDK) were analyzed using logistic regression analysis. The post-hoc powers for the identified factors were then determined.

Results

Forty-one knees (17.3%) with recurrent FC were identified. Risk factors with sufficient power for recurrent FC were unilateral TKA, severity of preoperative FC, residual FC at 3 months postoperatively, and LDK (odds ratios of 3.579, 1.115, 1.274, and 3.096, respectively; p < 0.05; power ≥ 86.1).

Conclusions

Recurrent FC can occur in TKAs with the risk factors including unilateral TKA, severe preoperative FC, residual FC at 3 months postoperative, and LDK despite appropriate intraoperative correction. Surgical strategies and rehabilitation protocols used in managing FC should be applied in TKA cases with risk factors for recurrent FC.

Total Knee Arthroplasty in Moderate to Severe Fixed Flexion Deformity in a Tertiary Care Center: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study

INTRODUCTION

Performing the total knee arthroplasty in moderate to severe fixed flexion deformity, appropriate resection of bone from distal femur along with proper ligament balancing is mandatory in order to get the reasonable intraoperative correction. The aim of our study is to find out the prevalence of total knee arthroplasty among knees with moderate to severe fixed flexion deformity in a tertiary care center.

METHODS

This is a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted from hospital records of 2013 to 2019 in elderly patients with moderate to severe fixed flexion deformity in a Tertiary Care Hospital. Ethical clearance (14/2020) was taken from Institutional Review Board. Convenience sampling was used and statistical analyses were performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software (version 16.0). Point estimate at 95% confidence interval was calculated along with frequency and proportion for binary data.

RESULTS

Out of 400 knees with moderate to severe fixed flexion deformity, the prevalence of total knee arthroplasty was found to be 80 knees (20%) (16.08-23.92 at 95% Confidence Interval).

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of total knee arthroplasty is comparable to other study. In our study total knee arthroplasty can be performed successfully with excellent functional outcomes in patients with moderate to severe fixed flexion deformity of knee joint provided the joint stability is maintained by appropriate ligamentous balancing.

Medical stretching devices are effective in the treatment of knee arthrofibrosis: A systematic review

AIMS

This systematic review examines the available evidence on the use of medical stretching devices to treat knee arthrofibrosis, it suggests a focus for future studies addressing limitations in current research and identifies gaps in the published literature to facilitate future works.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Articles were identified using the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, PubMed and SCOPUS databases. Articles from peer reviewed journals investigating the effectiveness of medical stretching devices to increase range of movement when treating arthrofibrosis of the knee were included.

RESULTS

A total of 13 studies (558 participants) met the inclusion criteria with the devices falling into the following categories; CPM, load control or displacement control stretching devices. A statistically significant increase in range of movement was demonstrated in CPM, load-control and displacement-control studies (p ​< ​0.001). The results show that the stretch doses applied using the CPM, load-control devices were performed over a considerably longer treatment time and involved significantly more additional physiotherapy compared to the displacement-control and patient actuated serial stretching devices.

CONCLUSION

The systematic review indicates that load-control and displacement-control devices are effective in increasing range of movement in the treatment of knee arthrofibrosis. Displacement-control devices involving patient actuated serial stretching techniques, may be more effective in increasing knee flexion than those utilising static progressive stretch.The paucity of research in this field indicates that more randomised controlled trials are required to investigate the superiority of the different types of displacement-control stretching devices and which of these would be most effective for use in clinical practice and to compare these with standard physiotherapy treatment.

Effect of Nadi svedana with simultaneous passive stretching on correction of sandhijadya

Severe knee flexion contracture greater than 80° is rare and challenging to manage. It is a common complication which occurs after a prolonged course of the rheumatoid arthritis. The case was a 45 year old female patient of Ama vata (rheumatoid arthritis) with sandhijadya and sankoca (contracture deformity) who was hospitalized for 2 months. She was unable to walk since 1 year due to contracture of both knee joints. The patient came on a wheel chair and was unable to walk even with support. She was advised for contracture repair surgery which she refused. After hospitalization she was treated with Nadi svedana twice a day for 20 min each. Simultaneously, passive stretching for 45 s in every 5 min interval was done. She was treated for 2 months. The patient was instructed to continue other Ayurvedic remedies given as the Ama vata (rheumatoid arthritis) treatment. After Nadi svedana, goniometric assessment of the knees contracture was performed every week. She got satisfactory result in stiffness and pain and has been able to walk with support. Extension of both knee joints has improved up to 20° with increased range of motion. Her height has also been increased up to 1.5 cm due to improvement in the extension of the knee joints with better feeling in daily activities during 3 months of follow-up period.

Enhancing Recovery After Total Knee Arthroplasty

There have been multiple successful efforts to improve and shorten the recovery period after elective total joint arthroplasty. The development of rapid recovery protocols through a multidisciplinary approach has occurred in recent years to improve patient satisfaction as well as outcomes. Bundled care payment programs and the practice of outpatient total joint arthroplasty have provided additional pressure and incentives for surgeons to provide high-quality care with low cost and complications. In this review, the evidence for modern practices are reviewed regarding patient selection and education, anesthetic techniques, perioperative pain management, intraoperative factors, blood management, and postoperative rehabilitation.

Arthrofibrosis Associated With Total Knee Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Arthrofibrosis is a debilitating postoperative complication of total knee arthroplasty (TKA). It is one of the leading causes of hospital readmission and a predominant reason for TKA failure. The prevalence of arthrofibrosis will increase as the annual incidence of TKA in the United States rises into the millions.

METHODS

In a narrative review of the literature, the etiology, economic burden, treatment strategies, and future research directions of arthrofibrosis after TKA are examined.

RESULTS

Characterized by excessive proliferation of scar tissue during an impaired wound healing response, arthrofibrotic stiffness causes functional deficits in activities of daily living. Postoperative, supervised physiotherapy remains the first line of defense against the development of arthrofibrosis. Also, adjuncts to traditional physiotherapy such as splinting and augmented soft tissue mobilization can be beneficial. The effectiveness of rehabilitation on functional outcomes depends on the appropriate timing, intensity, and progression of the program, accounting for the patient's ability and level of pain. Invasive treatments such as manipulation under anesthesia, debridement, and revision arthroplasty improve range of motion, but can be traumatic and costly. Future studies investigating novel treatments, early diagnosis, and potential preoperative screening for risk of arthrofibrosis will help target those patients who will need additional attention and tailored rehabilitation to improve TKA outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Arthrofibrosis is a multi-faceted complication of TKA, and is difficult to treat without an early, tailored, comprehensive rehabilitation program. Understanding the risk factors for its development and the benefits and shortcomings of various interventions are essential to best restore mobility and function.

International consensus on the definition and classification of fibrosis of the knee joint

AIMS

The aim of this consensus was to develop a definition of post-operative fibrosis of the knee.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

An international panel of experts took part in a formal consensus process composed of a discussion phase and three Delphi rounds.

RESULTS

Post-operative fibrosis of the knee was defined as a limited range of movement (ROM) in flexion and/or extension, that is not attributable to an osseous or prosthetic block to movement from malaligned, malpositioned or incorrectly sized components, metal hardware, ligament reconstruction, infection (septic arthritis), pain, chronic regional pain syndrome (CRPS) or other specific causes, but due to soft-tissue fibrosis that was not present pre-operatively. Limitation of movement was graded as mild, moderate or severe according to the range of flexion (90° to 100°, 70° to 89°, < 70°) or extension deficit (5° to 10°, 11° to 20°, > 20°). Recommended investigations to support the diagnosis and a strategy for its management were also agreed.

CONCLUSION

The development of standardised, accepted criteria for the diagnosis, classification and grading of the severity of post-operative fibrosis of the knee will facilitate the identification of patients for inclusion in clinical trials, the development of clinical guidelines, and eventually help to inform the management of this difficult condition. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:1479-88.

A case report of successful treatment of 90° knee flexion contracture in a patient with adult-onset Still's disease

Background

Severe knee flexion contractures greater than 80° are rare and challenging to manage. Previous studies have demonstrated unsatisfactory clinical results after correcting these deformities because residual flexion contractures were not corrected within a short period of time. We herein report the case of a patient with adult-onset Still’s disease with 90° of bilateral knee flexion contracture, which was successfully corrected by total knee arthroplasty and serial casting over a period of five weeks.

Case presentation

A 47-year-old male was admitted to our orthopedic department for bilateral knee pain and a preoperative fixed flexion contracture of 90°. A diagnosis of adult-onset Still’s disease was made based on the patient’s medical history of a high spiking fever, salmon-colored rash and bilateral knee and wrist pain. Bilateral total knee arthroplasty was carried out to address these deformities, but residual flexion contracture was present. Subsequently, serial casting was used to achieve full extension at four weeks after surgery. Excellent function and patient satisfaction were observed at two years of follow-up.

Conclusion

The new protocol of total knee arthroplasty with subsequent serial casting seems to be an efficient solution for knee flexion contractures greater than 80°. This report adds to the very small number of reported cases of adult-onset Still’s disease with severe knee flexion contractures and describes a patient who was successfully treated with a new protocol.

Custom Knee Device for Knee Contractures After Internal Femoral Lengthening

The development of knee flexion contractures is among the most common problems and complications associated with lengthening the femur with an internal device or external fixator. Conservative treatment strategies include physical therapy, serial casting, and low-load prolonged stretching with commercially available splinting systems. The authors developed an individually molded, low-cost custom knee device with polyester synthetic conformable casting material to treat knee flexion contractures. The goal of this study was to evaluate the results of treatment with a custom knee device and specialized physical therapy in patients who had knee flexion contracture during femoral lengthening with an intramedullary lengthening femoral nail. This retrospective study included 23 patients (27 limbs) who underwent femoral lengthening with an internal device for the treatment of limb length discrepancy. All patients had a knee flexion contracture raging from 10° to 90° during the lengthening process and were treated with a custom knee device and specialized physical therapy. The average flexion contracture before treatment was 36°. The mean amount of lengthening was 5.4 cm. After an average of 3.8 weeks of use of the custom knee device, only 2 of 27 limbs (7.5%) had not achieved complete resolution of the flexion contracture. The average final extension was 1.4°. Only 7 of 27 limbs (26%) required additional soft tissue release. The custom knee device is an inexpensive and effective method for treating knee flexion contracture after lengthening with an internal device.

Total knee arthroplasty treatment of rheumatoid arthritis with severe versus moderate flexion contracture

Background

This study aims to explore the technique of soft tissue balance and joint tension maintenance in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) for the rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients with flexion contracture of the knee.

Methods

This retrospective study reviewed flexion contracture deformity of RA patients who underwent primary TKA and ligament and soft tissue balancing. Based on the flexion contracture deformity, the remaining 76 patients available for analysis were divided into two groups, i.e., severe flexion group (SF) and moderate flexion group (MF).

Results

There were no intraoperative complications in this study. All patients had improved Knee Society Rating System scores and range of motion. The flexion contracture was completely corrected in MF and SF patients. There were no cases of patellar dislocation, but three cases had mild mediolateral instability in severe flexion group. Four knees (two knees in SF versus two knees in MF) had transient peroneal nerve palsy but recovered after conservative therapy.

Conclusions

TKA can be performed successfully in the RA knees with severe flexion contracture. It is very important in TKA to maintain the joint stability in the condition of severe flexion contracture deformity of the RA knee.

Knee extension range of motion and self-report physical function in total knee arthroplasty: mediating effects of knee extensor strength

Background

Knee extensor strength and knee extension range of motion (ROM) are important predictors of physical function in patients with a total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, the relationship between the two knee measures remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to examine whether changes in knee extensor strength mediate the association between changes in knee extension ROM and self-report physical function.

Methods

Data from 441 patients with a TKA were collected preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively. Self-report measure of physical function was assessed by the Short Form 36 (SF-36) questionnaire. Knee extensor strength was measured by handheld dynamometry and knee extension ROM by goniometry. A bootstrapped cross product of coefficients approach was used to evaluate mediation effects.

Results

Mediation analyses, adjusted for clinicodemographic measures, revealed that the association between changes in knee extension ROM and SF-36 physical function was mediated by changes in knee extensor strength.

Conclusions

In patients with TKA, knee extensor strength mediated the influence of knee extension ROM on physical function. These results suggest that interventions to improve the range of knee extension may be useful in improving knee extensor performance.

Use of a static progressive stretch orthosis to treat post-traumatic ankle stiffness

Background

Chronic ankle stiffness can develop for numerous reasons after traumatic injury, and may adversely affect patient gait, mobility, and function. Although standard physical therapeutic techniques typically resolve this stiffness, some cases may be recalcitrant to these measures, making it difficult to restore range-of-motion. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a static progressive stretch orthosis for the treatment of chronic ankle stiffness.

Methods

Twenty-six patients (26 ankles) who had chronic post-traumatic ankle stiffness were studied. The patients began treatment at a mean of 47 weeks (range, 6 to 272 weeks) following their initial injury using a static progressive stretch orthosis. A patient-directed protocol was used for 30 minutes per day, 1 to 3 times per day, until the range-of-motion was considered to have plateaued. Mean treatment time was 10 weeks (range, 3 to 19 weeks). Treatment duration, range-of-motion, and complications with the device were assessed.

Results

The overall mean improvement in motion (combined dorsiflexion and plantar flexion) was 17 degrees (range, 2 to 44 degrees). There was a mean improvement in dorsiflexion of 9 degrees (range, -2 to 20 degrees), and a mean improvement of 8 degrees of plantar flexion (range, -10 to 35 degrees). There were no reports of numbness or skin problems.

Conclusions

The outcomes of this study suggest that a patient-directed treatment protocol using a static progressive stretch orthosis was an effective ancillary method for the treatment of chronic post-traumatic ankle stiffness that was refractory to standard physical therapy techniques.

Current concepts for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a criterion-based rehabilitation progression

The management of patients after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction should be evidence based. Since our original published guidelines in 1996, successful outcomes have been consistently achieved with the rehabilitation principles of early weight bearing, using a combination of weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing exercise focused on quadriceps and lower extremity strength, and meeting specific objective requirements for return to activity. As rehabilitative evidence and surgical technology and procedures have progressed, the original guidelines should be revisited to ensure that the most up-to-date evidence is guiding rehabilitative care. Emerging evidence on rehabilitative interventions and advancements in concomitant surgeries, including those addressing chondral and meniscal injuries, continues to grow and greatly affect the rehabilitative care of patients with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. The aim of this article is to update previously published rehabilitation guidelines, using the most recent research to reflect the most current evidence for management of patients after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. The focus will be on current concepts in rehabilitation interventions and modifications needed for concomitant surgery and pathology.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapy, level 5.

Static progressive stretch improves range of motion in arthrofibrosis following total knee arthroplasty

Arthrofibrosis is a relatively common complication after total knee arthroplasty that negatively affects function and quality of life. Static progressive stretching is a technique that has shown promising results in the treatment of contractures of the elbow, ankle, wrist and knee. This study evaluated a static progressive stretching device as a treatment method for patients who had refractory knee stiffness after total knee arthroplasty. Twenty-five patients who had knee stiffness and no improvement with conventional physical therapy modalities were treated with the device. After a median of 7 weeks (range, 3-16 weeks), the median increase in range of motion was 25 degrees (range, 8-82 degrees). The median gain in knee active flexion was 19 degrees (range, 5-80 degrees). Ninety-two percent of patients were satisfied with the results. The authors believe static progressive stretching devices may be an effective method for increasing the ranges of motion and satisfaction levels of patients who develop arthrofibrosis after total knee arthroplasty.