Balance and Knee Joint Kinematics after Total Knee Arthroplasty: Comparing Cruciate-retaining and Posterior-stabilized Designs

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a common surgical procedure for osteoarthritis and other degenerative conditions of the knee. Posterior stabilization may be achieved using a cam and post mechanism (PS), or by retention of the posterior cruciate ligament (CR). Little evidence exists to indicate superiority of either PS or CR designs. Further, few studies have examined balance in TKA patients, despite an established link to falls risk. Patients with PS- and CR-TKA were compared to healthy, age-matched controls. A methodology was established for assessment of balance and knee kinematics in TKA patients. Data collection included demographics, participant-reported outcomes, objective functional measures, and balance and kinematic assessment during postural perturbations. While all groups displayed similar balance performance, we identified important functional and kinematic differences between TKA groups. Further study is required to identify the mechanisms by which TKA impacts falls risk, and to further define biomechanical differences between these implants.M.Sc