The Relationship between Flexion-Extension Gap and Clinical Results in Total Knee Arthroplasty

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the relationship between flexion-extension gap discrepancy and clinical results in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We evaluated the clinical results of 38 knees, which were performed TKA between March 2003 and June 2003, and followed up for at least 2 years. We divided all cases by the difference of medial and lateral joint gap in flexion and extension. Group A was no flexion-extension gap difference(17 cases) and group B was different gap(21 cases). We evaluated Knee Score, Function Score, range of motion and radiologic results RESULTS: The difference of group B was less than 2mm. In Knee Score and function score, Group A improved from preoperative 50.1 and 45.0 to the last follow up to 95.6 and 95.9, and those of Group B improved from 48.2 and 45.2 to 96.9 and 91.4. There was no statistical difference between two groups(p>0.05). Flexion angle of Group A increased from preoperative 108.2 degree to the last follow up 115.3 degree. That of Group B increased from preoperative 101.9 degree to the last follow up 113.6degree. But, there was no statistical difference between two groups(p>0.05). 2 cases of recurrent hemarthrosis were in Group B. CONCLUSION: We got good clinical results by flexion-extension gap difference within 2 mm. But long term followed up was needed.