Stiffness after revision total knee arthroplasty

Outcomes of Liner Exchange Versus Component Revision for the Treatment of Stiffness Following Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to compare outcomes of revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA) with liner exchange (LE) versus component revision (CRev) for stiffness post-TKA.

METHODS

We retrospectively identified all rTKA performed for stiffness after primary TKA using our institutional database (2003 to 2021). Cases with infection, loosening, or < 2 years follow-up were excluded. There were 129 rTKA included, 91 in the LE, and 38 in the CRev cohorts. The mean follow-up was 8.5 years (range, 2 to 21). The LE and CRev cohorts had similar baseline demographics (P > 0.05), previous manipulation (P = 0.45), time from primary TKA (P = 0.14), and pre-rTKA arc of motion (AOM) (P = 0.08). The primary outcomes were the achievement of a successful range of movement (ROM), defined as flexion ≥ 90° with an extension deficit of ≤ 10° and AOM improvement. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to compare survival free from rerevision between cohorts.

RESULTS

For the entire cohort, 69% achieved a successful ROM, and the mean AOM improved (P < 0.001). Achievement of successful ROM was comparable between LE (72%) and CRev (62%) cohorts (P = 0.29). The mean gain in AOM was similar between LE (24.9°) and CRev (25.4°) cohorts (P = 0.45). Preoperative extension deficit was associated with poorer outcomes (P = 0.006). The 10-year rerevision-free survival was similar between the LE (86.2%) and CRev (81.1%) cohorts (P = 0.55). Survival from rerevision for stiffness at 10 years was also similar (P = 0.6). The CRev group had increased surgical times (P < 0.0001), blood loss (P < 0.0001), and length of stay (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

An LE resulted in similar achievement of a successful ROM and rerevision-free survival compared with CRev. In properly selected patients, LE is a reasonable option for the treatment of stiffness after TKA.

"Is every revision the same?" definition of complexity in knee revision surgery

PURPOSE

The purpose of this paper is to define a subset of complex rTKA in terms of preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative outcomes and complications. The secondary outcome of the authors is to propose a simple and easy-to-use guide for clinical network in rTKA management.

METHODS

Complex rTKAs were defined according to the presence of at least two of the following features: periprosthetic joint infection, re- revision, femoral and/or tibial massive bone defects, soft tissue impairment, stiffness, fracture requiring fixed component revision.

RESULTS

Twenty-six patients underwent a standard rTKA (group A) while 24 had a complex rTKA (group B). The mean follow-up was 50.2 ± 16.4 months in group A and 49.5 ± 16.8 in group B (p = 0.44). The operative time was longer in group B (200.4 ± 131.4 min vs 110.2 ± 59.8 min). A greater intraoperative total blood loss (3014.2 ± 740.0 vs 2328.5 ± 620.6 ml, p < 0.001), intra and postoperative blood infusion (3.6 ± 1.2 vs 2.1 ± 1.2 units, p < 0.001) was reported in group B. Significant difference was obtained for global complication rate (11.5% group A vs 37.5% group B, p = 0.04), reoperation (7.7% group A vs 33.3% group B, p = p = 0.03) and re-revision (3.8% group A vs 25% group B, p = p = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

This study describes a specific entity of rTKA that require higher surgical effort and increased surgical challenge (measured as increased surgical time, need of transfusions and complications). The proposed classification could provide an easy-to-use tool for quick grading of complexity in rTKA.

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.

A mapping review on preoperative prognostic factors and outcome measures of revision total knee arthroplasty

To map literature on prognostic factors related to outcomes of revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA), to identify extensively studied factors and to guide future research into what domains need further exploration. We performed a systematic literature search in MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science. The search string included multiple synonyms of the following keywords: "revision TKA", "outcome" and "prognostic factor". We searched for studies assessing the association between at least one prognostic factor and at least one outcome measure after rTKA surgery. Data on sample size, study design, prognostic factors, outcomes, and the direction of the association was extracted and included in an evidence map. After screening of 5,660 articles, we included 166 studies reporting prognostic factors for outcomes after rTKA, with a median sample size of 319 patients (30 to 303,867). Overall, 50% of the studies reported prospectively collected data, and 61% of the studies were performed in a single centre. In some studies, multiple associations were reported; 180 different prognostic factors were reported in these studies. The three most frequently studied prognostic factors were reason for revision (213 times), sex (125 times), and BMI (117 times). Studies focusing on functional scores and patient-reported outcome measures as prognostic factor for the outcome after surgery were limited (n = 42). The studies reported 154 different outcomes. The most commonly reported outcomes after rTKA were: re-revision (155 times), readmission (88 times), and reinfection (85 times). Only five studies included costs as outcome. Outcomes and prognostic factors that are routinely registered as part of clinical practice (e.g. BMI, sex, complications) or in (inter)national registries are studied frequently. Studies on prognostic factors, such as functional and sociodemographic status, and outcomes as healthcare costs, cognitive and mental function, and psychosocial impact are scarce, while they have been shown to be important for patients with osteoarthritis.

Human outgrowth knee fibroblasts from patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty exhibit a unique gene expression profile and undergo myofibroblastogenesis upon TGFβ1 stimulation

Arthrofibrosis is characterized by excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition that results in restricted joint motion after total knee arthroplasties (TKAs). Currently, treatment options are limited. Therefore, an in vitro model of knee-related myofibroblastogenesis is valuable to facilitate investigation of the arthrofibrotic process, diagnostic and therapeutic options. In this study, we obtained intraoperative posterior capsule (PC), quadriceps tendon (QT), and suprapatellar pouch (SP) tissues from the knees of four patients undergoing primary TKAs for osteoarthritis. From these tissues, we isolated primary cells by the outgrowth method and subsequently characterized these cells in the absence and presence of the pro-myofibroblastic cytokine, transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFβ1). Light microscopy of knee outgrowth cells revealed spindle-shaped cells, and immunofluorescence (IF) analysis demonstrated staining for the fibroblast-specific markers TE-7 and vimentin (VIM). These knee outgrowth fibroblasts differentiated readily into myofibroblasts as reflected by enhanced α-smooth muscle actin (ACTA2) mRNA and protein expression and increased mRNA expression of collagen type 1 (COL1A1) and type 3 (COL3A1) with collagenous matrix deposition in the presence of TGFβ1. Outgrowth knee fibroblasts were more sensitive to TGFβ1-mediated myofibroblastogenesis than adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs). While outgrowth knee fibroblasts isolated from three anatomical regions in four patients exhibited similar gene expression, these cells are distinct from other fibroblastic cell types (i.e., Dupuytren's fibroblasts) as revealed by RNA-sequencing. In conclusion, our study provides an in vitro myofibroblastic model of outgrowth knee fibroblasts derived from patients undergoing primary TKA that can be utilized to study myofibroblastogenesis and assess therapeutic strategies for arthrofibrosis.

Results of revision knee replacement for patients with isolated fixed flexion deformity after primary or revision knee replacement

BACKGROUND

Postoperative fixed flexion deformity is a known complication of knee replacement surgery. We present our results of revision surgery for treatment of isolated fixed flexion deformity after knee replacement.

METHODS

32 patients had revision knee replacement for fixed flexion deformity and were included in this retrospective study. Minimum follow up period was 28 months.

RESULTS

Two different surgical interventions had been done in these patients. Group 1 (15 patients) had revision of the femoral component, posterior capsular release and tibial component was not revised. Group 2 (18 Patients) had revision of both femoral and tibial components. One patient was included in both groups as she had both interventions. The extent of preoperative flexion deformity in group 1 was from 15 to 40 deg (mean 20.6 deg). Postoperative range of extension was 0 to 20 deg (mean 8.2 deg). In group 2, preoperative flexion deformity was 10 to 25 deg (mean 16.9 deg) and postoperative flexion deformity was 0 to 20 deg (mean 4.2 deg). The difference in improvement between the two groups was not statistically significant on Mann Whitney U test (two tailed p value 0.181) for non normal distribution. Improvement in Oxford knee score following surgery was only 1 point in both groups.

CONCLUSION

Revision for isolated fixed flexion deformity leads to improvement in range of extension, but improvement in clinical score is marginal. The choice of preservation or revision of the tibial component did not make a significant difference to the outcome.

Reasons for revision are associated with rerevised total knee arthroplasties: an analysis of 8,978 index revisions in the Dutch Arthroplasty Register

Background and purpose - From previous studies, we know that clinical outcomes of revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA) differ among reasons for revision. Whether the prevalence of repeat rTKAs is different depending on the reason for index rTKA is unclear. Therefore, we (1) compared the repeat revision rates between the different reasons for index rTKA, and (2) evaluated whether the reason for repeat rTKA was the same as the reason for the index revision.Patients and methods - Patients (n = 8,978) who underwent an index rTKA between 2010 and 2018 as registered in the Dutch Arthroplasty Register were included. Reasons for revision, as reported by the surgeon, were categorized as: infection, loosening, malposition, instability, stiffness, patellar problems, and other. Competing risk analyses were performed to determine the cumulative repeat revision rates after an index rTKA for each reason for revision.Results - Overall, the cumulative repeat revision rate was 19% within 8 years after index rTKA. Patients revised for infection had the highest cumulative repeat revision rate (28%, 95% CI 25-32) within 8 years after index rTKA. The recurrence of the reason was more common than other reasons after index rTKA for infection (18%), instability (8%), stiffness (7%), and loosening (5%).Interpretation - Poorest outcomes were found for rTKA for infection: over 1 out of 4 infection rTKAs required another surgical intervention, mostly due to infection. Recurrence of other reasons for revision (instability, stiffness, and loosening) was also considerable. Our findings also emphasize the importance of a clear diagnosis before doing rTKA to avert second revision surgeries.

The stiff total knee arthroplasty: causes, treatment modalities and results

It is clear that the stiff total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a multifactorial entity associated with preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative factors.

Management of the stiff TKA is best achieved by preventing its occurrence using strategies to control preoperative factors, avoid intraoperative technical errors and perform aggressive, painless postoperative physical medicine and rehabilitation; adequate pain control is paramount in non-invasive management.

Careful attention to surgical exposure, restoring gap balance, minimizing surgical trauma to the patellar ligament/extensor mechanism, appropriate implant selection, pain control and adequate physical medicine and rehabilitation (physiotherapy, Astym therapy) all serve to reduce its incidence.

For established stiff TKA, there are multiple treatment options available including mobilization under anaesthesia (MUA), arthroscopic arthrolysis, revision TKA, and combined procedures.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2019;4:602-610. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.4.180105

Improved clinical outcomes after revision arthroplasty with a hinged implant for severely stiff total knee arthroplasty

PURPOSE

Management of the severely stiff total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is challenging, with the outcome of revision arthroplasty being inferior compared to the outcome for other indications. The aim of this study was to analyse the outcome after revision TKA with hinged-type implants for severely stiff TKA [range of motion (ROM) ≤ 70°] at 2 years.

METHODS

A cohort of 38 patients with a hinged-type revision TKA (Waldemar Link or RT-Plus) and preoperative ROM ≤ 70° were selected from a prospectively collected database. ROM, visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain and satisfaction and Knee Society Score (KSS) were obtained preoperatively and at 3 months, 1 year and 2 years. Pre- and postoperative outcome were compared at 2 years.

RESULTS

There was a significant increase in ROM and KSS. VAS pain scores did not differ significantly. The median ROM at 2 years was 90° (range 50°-125°) with a median gain of 45° (range 5°-105°). Median VAS pain was 28.5 (range 0-96) points and median VAS satisfaction was 72 (range 0-100) points at 2 years. Twelve patients suffered a complication. Recurrent stiff knee was the most frequently reported complication (n = 5).

CONCLUSIONS

Hinged-type revision TKA following a severely stiff TKA renders a significant, although moderate, clinical improvement at 2 years.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Retrospective case series. Level IV.

Efficacy of Revision Surgery for the Treatment of Stiffness After Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Knee stiffness following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) may cause pain and reduced functionality, contributing to unsatisfactory surgical outcomes. Revision surgery remains a possible treatment for refractory postoperative stiffness. However, the efficacy of the procedure has not been systematically evaluated.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was performed to identify studies that reported on outcomes for patients who underwent revision surgery for postoperative stiffness after TKA.

RESULTS

Ten studies (including 485 knees) were reviewed. The most common etiologies of stiffness requiring revision TKA were component malposition, malalignment, overstuffing, aseptic loosening, arthrofibrosis, patella baja, and heterotopic ossification. Of 9 studies reviewing range of motion outcomes after revision TKA, 7 studies documented significant improvement and 2 found trends toward improvement. Seven of 8 studies documenting Knee Society knee scores and 7 of 9 studies documenting functional scores found improvement after revision TKA. All studies reporting on pain found improvement at final follow-up after revision TKA.

CONCLUSION

Revision TKA results in increased range of motion, improved functionality, and reduced pain in most patients who require surgery for stiffness. The present literature is inadequate to predict which patients will achieve adequate outcomes from revision TKA based on the specific etiology of their stiffness, although identification of the etiology may help in surgical planning. Surgeons performing revision TKA should counsel patients on the risks and benefits of undergoing revision surgery, with the understanding that outcomes for well-selected patients are generally favorable.

Identifying Risk Factors for the Development of Stiffness After Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Although there are several studies concerning manipulation under anesthesia (MUA) after primary total knee arthroplasty, there is a paucity of literature evaluating MUA after revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA). The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence, timing, and risk factors associated with MUA after rTKA.

METHODS

The Humana database was reviewed from 2007 to 2015 for all patients who underwent rTKA. Patients who underwent rTKA followed by ipsilateral MUA were identified. Time to MUA was calculated monthly. Possible risk factors analyzed included preoperative narcotic use, smoking, anxiety and/or depression, diabetes, obesity, age, and sex. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine odds ratio.

RESULTS

In total, 5414 rTKAs were included in the study and 1.7% (n = 96) underwent MUA after surgery. Sixty-nine percent of MUAs occurred within the first 3 months after rTKA. Young patients (<50 years) had significantly higher odds of MUA after rTKA (6.5, P < .0001). No difference in odds of MUA (1.0, P = .85) occurred between males and females. A diagnosis of obesity, diabetes, anxiety and/or depression, previous history of narcotic use, or a history of smoking demonstrated no increased risk of MUA after rTKA. Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that younger age remained predictive of higher odds of MUA after rTKA.

CONCLUSION

In this large multicenter cohort study, 1.7% of patients underwent MUA after rTKA and younger patients were 6 times more likely to have a MUA than patients over 50 years old. These data should serve to help counsel patients regarding their risk of MUA after rTKA.

Do Porous Tantalum Metaphyseal Cones Improve Outcomes in Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty?

BACKGROUND

Some authors have advocated for use of porous tantalum metaphyseal cones to manage bone defects during revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The purpose of this study is to compare results with porous metaphyseal cones to results with traditional hybrid stem fixation in revision TKA.

METHODS

Forty-nine patients undergoing revision TKA with femoral and/or tibial metaphyseal cones (39 tibial only, 3 femoral only, 7 both) were matched by surgical indication to 49 patients undergoing revision TKA with a traditional hybrid stem (non-cone) technique. Clinical and radiographic outcomes were compared at a minimum of two-year follow-up (mean 3.5 years) with adjustment for baseline characteristics.

RESULTS

Pre-revision bone defects and most baseline demographics were similar between the cone and non-cone cohorts suggesting appropriate matching. Patients in the non-cone cohort had greater pre- to post-operative increases in Knee Society Score (37.2 ± 18.6 vs 28.4 ± 17.8, P = .010) and Knee Society Functional Score (30.4 ± 24.3 vs 13.1 ± 27.6, P = .003). The cohorts did not differ with respect to complications, subsequent reoperation, subsequent revision, patient satisfaction, tibial overhang, the presence of radio-sclerotic lines, cortical hypertrophy around the stems, or tibial subsidence.

CONCLUSION

In this series, metaphyseal cones were not associated with superior outcomes at short-term follow-up. Given the increased cost associated with use of cones compared to traditional techniques, this study cannot support the routine use of metaphyseal cones in revision TKA. Longer-term follow-up will be necessary to determine if construct durability differs over the long term.

Revision Arthroplasty for the Management of Stiffness After Primary TKA

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of revision surgery for the treatment of stiffness after total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

METHODS

An IRB-approved retrospective review was performed to identify patients who were revised due to stiffness after a primary TKA. Patients were included when at least one major component had to be revised due to stiffness after primary TKA with a minimum follow-up of 2 years. Patients with history of previous infection and those treated with isolated polyethylene exchange were excluded.

RESULTS

The study group involved 42 knees. Mean follow-up was 47 months (24-109 months). Mean flexion contracture improved from 9.7° (0°-35°) preoperatively to 2.3° (0°-20°) postoperatively (P < .00). Mean flexion improved from 81.5° (10°-125°) preoperatively to 94.3° (15°-140°) postoperatively (P .02). Mean range of motion improved from 72.0° preoperatively (10°-100°) to 92° (15°-140°) postoperatively (P < .00). Mean Knee Society knee scores improved from 43.9 points (15-67) preoperatively to 72.0 points (50-93) at latest follow-up and mean Knee Society Function scores improved from 48.7 (35-80) preoperatively to 70.1 points (30-90) postoperatively. Pain improved in 73% of the patients.

CONCLUSION

Revision surgery appears to be a reasonable option for patients presenting with pain and stiffness after TKA. However, the benefits may be modest as the outcomes still do not approach those achieved with primary TKA.

Women and Minorities Are at Risk of Developing Unexpected Reduction of Preoperative Flexion After Total Knee Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Reduced flexion after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) compared to the preoperative values can affect patient's activities of daily living and lead to patient dissatisfaction. The aim of this study was to determine preoperative risk factors for developing a decrease in knee flexion after a primary TKA.

METHODS

We identified 37 knees diagnosed with osteoarthritis with a preoperative knee flexion ≥120° but a 12-month postoperative range of motion (ROM) ≤110°. A random sample of 111 patients (1:3) from the same database, whose knees had a preoperative and 12-month postoperative ROM ≥120°, based on a diagnosis of primary osteoarthritis and no previous open knee surgery, were selected as the controls.

RESULTS

We found female gender, black ethnicity, and the low preoperative knee-specific Knee Society Score to be significant risk factors for developing a reduction of knee flexion after TKA with odds ratios of 3.48, 5.11, and 0.95, respectively.

CONCLUSION

In the absence of the well-recognized preoperative risk factors for a limited postoperative ROM, female patients, minorities, and those with lower knee-specific Knee Society Scores are at an increased risk of developing a decrease in flexion after an elective primary TKA.

The Use of Trabecular Metal Cones in Complex Primary and Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty

Trabecular metal cones are one option for treating osseous defects during TKA. A total of 83 consecutive TKAs utilizing cones with an average of 40 months follow-up were reviewed. There were 24 males and 59 females, with an average age of 69 years old. Four were complex primary and 79 were revision procedures. Of 83 patients, 10 (12%) required repeat revision surgery (8 infections, one periprosthetic fracture, one aseptic loosening) and overall, 37 of 83 patients (45%) experienced at least one complication. Of 73 unrevised knees, 72 (99%) demonstrated radiographic evidence of osseointegration. Despite a high complication rate in this population, trabecular metal cones represent an attractive option for managing bone loss in complex primary and revision TKA with a high rate of osseointegration.

Predictors of functional outcome after revision total knee arthroplasty following aseptic failure

BACKGROUND

There are a limited number of studies related to quality of life and functional outcome after revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The present study aimed to identify predictors of functional outcome after revision TKA for aseptic failure.

METHODS

One hundred seventy-five patients with mean age of 66.6 years (range, 35-88) who underwent revision TKA for aseptic failure at our institute from 2003 to 2007 were identified. Short-form 36 (SF-36), Western Ontario and McMaster Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and Knee Society Scores (KSS) collected preoperatively and at 2 years follow up were evaluated. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine predictors of functional outcome in studied patients.

RESULTS

Both physical and mental dimensions of SF-36, pain, functional, and stiffness subscales of WOMAC and both functional and clinical scores of KSS improved significantly after revision TKA (p<0.001). In the multivariate analysis, male gender, a lower Charlson comorbidity index, and higher preoperative functional KSS were predictors of higher functional KSS at 2 years after revision. Lower preoperative pain and higher clinical KSS were predictors of better outcome as measured by pain scale of WOMAC. Body mass index (BMI) and preoperative clinical KSS were significant predictors of function and stiffness as measured by WOMAC.

CONCLUSIONS

BMI is a modifiable predictor of functional outcome after revision TKA. Moreover, patients with higher preoperative functional scores appear to have better postoperative function.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II.