Revision total knee arthroplasty for stiffness

Revision total knee arthroplasty for arthrofibrosis improves range of motion

PURPOSE

Arthrofibrosis after primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a significant contributor to patient dissatisfaction. While treatment algorithms involve early physical therapy and manipulation under anaesthesia (MUA), some patients ultimately require revision TKA. It is unclear whether revision TKA can consistently improve these patient's range of motion (ROM). The purpose of this study was to evaluate ROM when revision TKA was performed for arthrofibrosis.

METHODS

A retrospective study of 42 TKA's diagnosed with arthrofibrosis from 2013 to 2019 at a single institution with a minimum 2-year follow-up was performed. The primary outcome was ROM (flexion, extension, and total arc of motion) before and after revision TKA, and secondary outcomes included patient reported outcomes information system (PROMIS) scores. Categorical data were compared using chi-squared analysis, and paired samples t tests were performed to compare ROM at three different times: pre-primary TKA, pre-revision TKA, and post-revision TKA. A multivariable linear regression analysis was performed to assess for effect modification on total ROM.

RESULTS

The patient's pre-revision mean flexion was 85.6 degrees, and mean extension was 10.1 degrees. At the time of the revision, the mean age of the cohort was 64.7 years, the average body mass index (BMI) was 29.8, and 62% were female. At a mean follow-up of 4.5 years, revision TKA significantly improved terminal flexion by 18.4 degrees (p < 0.001), terminal extension by 6.8 degrees (p = 0.007), and total arc of motion by 25.2 degrees (p < 0.001). The final ROM after revision TKA was not significantly different from the patient's pre-primary TKA ROM (p = 0.759). PROMIS physical function, depression, and pain interference scores were 39 (SD = 7.72), 49 (SD = 8.39), and 62 (SD = 7.25), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Revision TKA for arthrofibrosis significantly improved ROM at a mean follow-up of 4.5 years with over 25 degrees of improvement in the total arc of motion, resulting in final ROM similar to pre-primary TKA ROM. PROMIS physical function and pain scores showed moderate dysfunction, while depression scores were within normal limits. While physical therapy and MUA remain the gold standard for the early treatment of stiffness after TKA, revision TKA can improve ROM.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Allergy Testing Has No Correlation with Intraoperative Histopathology from Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty for Implant-Related Metal Allergy

Lymphocyte transformation testing (LTT) is often used in the workup for possible metal allergy after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) but the correlation of this test with other diagnostic metal-allergy findings in patients undergoing revision TKA for suspected metal allergy has not been established. A single-center, single-surgeon cohort of 19 TKAs in which both components were revised for presumed implant-related metal allergy based on history, physical, and LTT testing, to nonnickel-containing implants were retrospectively identified. Histopathologic samples obtained intraoperatively were semiquantitatively analyzed using both the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) synovial pathology score and the Campbell aseptic lymphocyte-dominant vasculitis-associated lesion (ALVAL) score. As histopathology control group, we included in the study an additional cohort of 17 patients who received aseptic revision TKA and had no history of reported or tested metal sensitivity. All preoperative LTT results were highly reactive to nickel. However, this did not correlate with local periarticular tissue response in 18 of 19 cases which demonstrated a low HSS synovial score (mean: 3.8 ± 2.8, of a maximum score of 28) and the low Campbell ALVAL scores (mean: 2.5/10 ± 1.3, of a maximum score of 10). There were not any significant differences between the study group (suspected implant-related metal allergy) and the control group (nonsuspected implant-related metal allergy) in regard to (1) the Campbell score and (2) the HSS synovial inflammatory score. Knee Society Clinical Rating System (KSCRS) function score improved significantly after revision (mean postoperative increase: 34.0 ± 17. 2; p < 0.001), as well as mean visual analog scale (VAS) pain (mean postoperative decrease: 33.3 ± 26.4; p < 0.01) score. The short-term survival rate (at mean follow-up of 26.1 months) of this patient cohort was 100%. In this cohort of revised TKA patients with suspected nickel allergy based on clinical presentation and LTT positive results, intraoperative histopathology was essentially normal. However, all patients with suspected nickel allergy showed a significant clinical and functional improvement with excellent short-term survival rates. The clinical significance of a positive LTT needs further study.

Treatment of arthrofibrosis and stiffness after total knee arthroplasty: an updated review of the literature

PURPOSE

There is currently no consensus regarding the optimal treatment for stiffness following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). With the increased utilization of value-based models, it is important to determine the most effective treatments that will reduce the need for further intervention and additional expenditure. A systematic review was performed to compare the outcomes of manipulation under anaesthesia (MUA), arthroscopic lysis of adhesions (aLOA), and revision TKA (rTKA) for arthrofibrosis and stiffness following TKA.

METHODS

PubMed and MEDLINE databases were reviewed for articles published through October 2020. Studies were included if they reported patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) following MUA, aLOA, or rTKA. The primary endpoint was PROMs, while secondary outcomes included range of motion and the percentage of patients who pursued further treatment for stiffness.

RESULTS

A total of 40 studies were included: 21 on rTKA, 7 on aLOA, and 14 on MUA. The mean or median post-operative arc ROM was > 90° in 6/20 (30%) rTKA, 5/7 (71%) aLOA, and 7/10 (70%) MUA studies. Post-operative Knee Society (KSS) clinical and functional scores were the greatest in patients who underwent MUA and aLOA. As many as 43% of rTKA patients required further care compared to 25% of aLOA and 17% of MUA patients.

CONCLUSION

Stiffness following TKA remains a challenging condition to treat. Nonetheless, current evidence suggests that patients who undergo rTKA have poorer clinical outcomes and a greater need for further treatment compared to patients who undergo MUA or aLOA.

Outcome of Revision Surgery for the Idiopathic Stiff Total Knee Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Idiopathic stiff total knee arthroplasty (TKA) represents one of the most challenging subsets of the stiff TKA, as the etiology is unknown and there is no consensus on the most appropriate surgical treatment modality. Therefore, the aim of this study is to report on postoperative outcomes of revision surgery for idiopathic stiff TKA.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 189 consecutive patients (202 knees) who underwent revision TKA for stiffness: (1) 101 knees in the idiopathic stiffness cohort and (2) 88 in the non-idiopathic stiffness cohort. In the idiopathic stiffness cohort, 42 knees underwent isolated tibial insert exchange and 59 knees underwent component revision. Perioperative knee range of movement and complications were analyzed.

RESULTS

The overall revision surgery outcomes of the idiopathic stiffness cohort were worse than those of the non-idiopathic stiffness cohort with regard to maximum flexion (91.7° vs 100.1°, P = .02) and flexion range of motion (ROM) (87.6° vs 97.1°, P = .01). In the idiopathic stiffness cohort, isolated tibial insert exchange demonstrated greater maximum flexion (96.8° vs 88.4°, P = .06) and flexion ROM (93.2° vs 83.9°, P = .07). In terms of re-revision rates, the isolated tibial insert exchange idiopathic stiffness cohort demonstrated lower re-revision rates compared to the component revision idiopathic stiffness cohort (16.7% vs 31.0%, P = .01).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that the overall revision surgery outcome of idiopathic stiff TKA is worse than non-idiopathic TKA stiffness. In idiopathic stiffness cohorts, isolated tibial insert exchange was associated with lower re-revision rates than component revision, with similar efficacy in improving ROM, suggesting that isolated tibial insert exchange may be a preferred surgical treatment option in TKA patients with idiopathic stiffness.

Efficacy of manipulation under anesthesia beyond three months following total knee arthroplasty

Background

Stiffness after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is often treated with manipulation under anesthesia (MUA) to improve range of motion (ROM). However, many authors recommend against MUA beyond 3 months after TKA. This study investigates the timing of MUA for stiffness after TKA, focusing on MUA performed at >12 weeks.

Methods

In total, 142 MUAs were retrospectively reviewed. “Early” MUAs were at <12 weeks after TKA; “Late” MUAs were >12 weeks. MUAs were further subdivided into 4 groups: 83 “Group I” cases at <12 weeks, 34 “Group II” between 12 and 26 weeks, 12 “Group III” between 26 and 52 weeks, and 13 “Group IV” at >52 weeks. Gains in ROM were compared between groups.

Results

Gains in flexion and overall ROM were statistically equivalent in Early vs Late MUA when controlling for pre-MUA ROM. ROM gains between the early Group I and the later Groups II-IV were also statistically comparable. Overall ROM gain in Group I was 24.1°, 17.9° in Group II, 20.8° in Group III, and 11.1° in Group IV. There were no significant complications.

Conclusions

Early and late MUA resulted in statistically equivalent gains in ROM, regardless of timing after TKA. All groups showed an average improvement in ROM of ≥11°. MUA performed beyond 3 months, and even beyond 1 year, appears to be safe and may improve ROM and allow select patients to avoid revision surgery.

Rotating-Hinge Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty for Treatment of Severe Arthrofibrosis

BACKGROUND

Revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) for arthrofibrosis is fraught with challenges. Because rotating-hinge (RH) prostheses do not rely on ligaments for stability, a more aggressive soft-tissue release is possible. The goal of this study was to report arc of motion, Knee Society scores, and implant survivorship in patients with arthrofibrosis revised with an RH.

METHODS

Thirty-four patients revised with an RH for arthrofibrosis were matched to 68 patients revised without an RH. The mean age was 63 years, 62% were female, mean body mass index was 31 kg/m², and mean follow-up was 6 years (range, 2-15 years).

RESULTS

The mean arc of motion increased 20° (74°-94°) in the RH group versus 12° (87°-99°) in the non-RH group (P = .048). Two manipulations under anesthesia were performed in the RH group compared to 9 in the non-RH group (P = .2). Knee Society scores increased significantly in both groups (P = .01 and P < .001, respectively). Survivorship free of revision for aseptic loosening at 10 years was 83% in the RH group versus 96% in the non-RH group (P = .44). Survivorship free of any revision at 10 years was 54% in the RH group and 90% in the non-RH group (P = .03). Forty percent of the revisions in the RH group were related to insert and bushing exchanges.

CONCLUSION

In this series, patients with arthrofibrosis revised to an RH TKA had a 20° improvement in arc of motion and manipulations under anesthesia were half as common. However, there was a higher risk of re-revision in the RH group.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Novel rabbit model of moderate knee contracture induced by direct capsular damage

The treatment of joint contracture continues to represent a challenging problem in orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation medicine. Existing animal models of knee contracture for evaluating new treatments are mostly created by extensive joint tissue damage with Kirschner-wire immobilization which requires a second surgery to remove Kirschner-wires. This study aimed to develop a less invasive rabbit model of moderate knee contracture through a single surgery. Skeletally mature New Zealand White rabbits had their right knee operated to create surgical damage to the posterior capsule under direct visualization. Operated knees were then held in a flexed position by suturing the superficial flexion muscles with absorbable sutures. The flexion contracture (net extension loss) was determined by comparing the extension angles between the operated and non-operated knees from 8 to 24 weeks post-surgery. The flexion contracture of the operated knees was significantly greater (p < 0.01/0.001) than the non-operated knees at each weekly measurement. The mean flexion contractures were 22° at 8 weeks, 19° at 16 weeks, and 18° at 24 weeks. No significant differences in the severity of flexion contracture were observed between 8-week and each of the following weeks, suggesting that the flexion contracture was essentially stabilized by 8 weeks post-surgery. Histopathologic analyses demonstrated intra-articular and peri-articular scar formation. This less invasive rabbit model of moderate knee contracture is more quickly established through a single surgery with lower risk of surgical complications compared to the previously reported invasive models, and could be an alternative animal model for joint contracture research. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:2687-2695, 2018.

Protocol-Driven Revision for Stiffness After Total Knee Arthroplasty Improves Motion and Clinical Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Stiffness after revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a difficult problem without a well-defined treatment algorithm. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of revision TKA for stiffness within the context of differential component replacement.

METHODS

Consecutive patients who underwent revision TKA were retrospectively identified and included those who received debridement and polyethylene liner exchange alone, revision of only one of the femoral or tibial fixed components, or revision of all components. Preoperative and postoperative range of motion and Knee Society score (KSS) were collected.

RESULTS

Sixty-nine knees were included in the study group with a mean follow-up of 43 months (range, 12-205 months). The mean prerevision flexion contracture of 17° improved to 5° after surgical intervention (P < .001). Similarly, mean flexion and motion arc improved from 70° to 92° and from 53° to 87°, respectively (P < .001). Mean KSS knee scores improved from 42 to 70 and KSS function scores improved from 41 to 68 (P < .001). Mean arc of motion improved by 45° in patients who underwent complete component revision, 32° with component retention, and 29° with single component revision (P = .046). KSS knee scores improved by 34, 25, and 28 points in these respective groups (P = .049). KSS function scores improved by 33, 27, and 25 points (P = .077).

CONCLUSION

Revision surgery with or without component revision can improve motion and function in patients with stiffness after TKA. Complete component revision may offer the largest improvements in these outcome measures in properly selected patients.

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.

Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty for Arthrofibrosis

BACKGROUND

Arthrofibrosis after TKA is a significant cause of patient dissatisfaction. There is little evidence regarding revision arthroplasty in this patient population. The purpose of this study is to evaluate outcomes after revision TKA for arthrofibrosis.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 46 consecutive revision TKAs for arthrofibrosis between 2007 and 2015 with minimum 2-year follow-up. Range of motion (ROM), complication rates, and Knee Society Scores (KSS) were recorded.

RESULTS

Patients were followed for a mean of 59 months. ROM and KSS significantly improved: with flexion improving from 88° to 103° and extension improving from 11° to 3° (P < .001). There was not a relationship between patient or surgical factors and outcomes in this study. The rate of complications was 28.2% with a 17.4% reoperation rate.

CONCLUSION

While revision for arthrofibrosis after TKA can be associated with significant improvements in ROM and KSS, caution is advised given high rates of revisions, reoperations, and complications. Thirty percent of patients in this series had a decrease in one or more component of the KSS or a net decrease in arc of motion after revision surgery.

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.

Moderate clinical improvement after revision arthroplasty of the severely stiff knee

PURPOSE

Revision of the severe stiff total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is challenging, and clinical outcome is inferior to other indications for revision. The purpose of the present study was to determine clinical outcome of TKA revision in patients with severe stiffness (range of motion (ROM) ≤ 70°) and evaluate a possible influence of accompanying findings, such as component malposition, aseptic loosening or instability.

METHODS

A prospective cohort of 40 patients with a preoperative ROM ≤ 70° and a minimum of 2-year follow-up after total system revision (Genesis or Legion stemmed condylar implant) was evaluated. ROM, Knee Society Scoring System (KSS) and visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores were obtained preoperatively and at 2 years. Patient satisfaction and complication rate were assessed. Component malposition was most frequently reported as accompanying finding (n = 27). Comparisons between pre- and postoperative outcome (p < 0.05) and between different subgroups (component malposition, aseptic loosening, and instability) based on accompanying findings were made (no statistical comparison).

RESULTS

ROM, KSS and VAS pain scores improved significantly (p < 0.001): median ROM at two years 85° (range 10-125) and median gain 25° (range -10 to +85). Median VAS satisfaction was 53.5 points (range 15-98). Seventeen patients reported at least one complication, including one re-revision. Six patients underwent manipulation under anaesthesia, and five were referred to the pain clinic. No clear differences between subgroups were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

TKA revision in patients with severe stiffness resulted in a moderate but significant improved clinical outcome after 2 years. Accompanying abnormalities such as component malposition, aseptic loosening or instability did not influence clinical outcome. Realistic patient counselling on the moderate outcome and possible remaining limitations in daily life might help to improve patient satisfaction.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic studies-case series with no comparison group, Level IV.

Preoperative flexion does not influence postoperative flexion after rotating-platform total knee arthroplasty

PURPOSE

Preoperative range of motion (ROM) has been regarded as one of the most important factors in predicting postoperative ROM following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Mobile-bearing TKA designs have been suggested to possibly improve the knee kinematics compared to fixed-bearing designs. The purpose of this study was to examine the difference in postoperative flexion as a function of preoperative flexion in a consecutive series of TKAs done using a posterior-stabilized rotating-platform prosthesis.

METHODS

ROM was assessed in 153 consecutive TKAs done using a rotating-platform posterior cruciate-substituting design. Patients were divided into two groups based on their preoperative ROM (Group 1 < 95°, Group 2 > 95°). The Knee Society Score (KSS) and ROM were assessed preoperatively, 3 months and 12 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

There was no difference in flexion 12 months after surgery between groups (mean 120° and 123°, respectively. n.s.). After 3 month follow-up, no increase in ROM was experienced by either group. Patients in Group 1 experienced significantly greater increases in both ROM (p < 0.001) and KSS (p < 0.05). There was no difference in the KSS at 12 months after surgery between groups.

CONCLUSION

In this series of patients undergoing TKA with a rotating-platform prosthesis, the preoperative ROM was not predictive of the postoperative ROM. Patients with stiff knees preoperatively may benefit from a mobile-bearing design prosthesis.

Flexion contracture following primary total knee arthroplasty: risk factors and outcomes

Function and satisfaction after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are partially linked to postoperative range of motion (ROM). Fixed flexion contracture is a recognized complication of TKA that reduces ROM and is a source of morbidity for patients. This study aimed to identify preoperative risk factors for developing fixed flexion contracture following TKA and to quantify the effect of fixed flexion contracture on outcomes (Oxford knee score 12-60 and patient satisfaction) at 2 years. Pre-, intra-, and postoperative data for 811 TKAs were retrospectively reviewed. At 2 years postoperatively, the incidence of fixed flexion contracture was 3.6%. Men were 2.6 times more likely than women to have fixed flexion contracture (P=.012), and patients with preimplant fixed flexion contracture were 2.3 times more likely than those without to have fixed flexion contracture (P=.028). Increasing age was associated with an increased rate of fixed flexion contracture (P=.02). Body mass index was not a risk factor (P=.968). Incidence of fixed flexion contracture for those undergoing computer navigated TKA was 3.9% compared with 3.4% for those having conventional surgery (P=.711). Patients with fixed flexion contracture had poorer outcomes with a median [interquartile range] Oxford Knee Score of 25 [15] compared with 20 [11] for those without (P=.003) and lower patient satisfaction (P=.036). These results support existing literature for incidence of fixed flexion contracture after TKA, risk factors, and outcomes, indicating that these figures can be extrapolated to a wide population. They also clarify a previously contentious point by excluding body mass index as a risk factor.