New Technique for Simple and Reproducible Gap-Balancing in Total Knee
Arthroplasty Using a Modified Spacer Block
Faiz Felemban*, Mohamed Yousef, Mohamed Al Otaibi and Ehab ElZayyat
Department of Orthopedic, International medical center, Saudi Arabia
*Corresponding Author: Faiz Felemban, Department of Orthopedic,
International medical center, Saudi Arabia.
Received:
June 28, 2023; Published: August 17, 2023
Abstract
Introduction:Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is used routinely throughout the world to treat advanced osteoarthritis. Establishing symmetrical, balanced, flexion and extension gaps is a vital step in TKA. Precise soft-tissue balance in conjunction with precise bone resection influences the knee implant’s stability in flexion and extension and affects functional outcomes. The study aim was to apply a new hybrid gap-balancing technique using modified spacer blocks (10-mm thickness) to TKA. This technique helps to predict femoral cuts, minimize the procedural steps, and determine proper femoral component rotation in a simple reproducible way.
Materials and Methods: We reviewed 20 consecutive patients (12 females and 8 males, mean age of 63.4 years) who underwent TKA for treating osteoarthritis from June to August 2020. All patients were treated using a hybrid gap-balancing technique assisted with a modified spacer block. Postoperative knee function scores were recorded. The follow-up for all patients was a minimum of 6 months and a maximum of 1 year postoperatively.
Results: The mean postoperative knee score was 83.6, the mean postoperative function score was 86, all patients had anterior-posterior and medio-lateral stability of <5 mm, one patient had a flexion contracture of 5°-10°, and 14 of 20 patients could walk without a walking aid. The mean follow-up was 12 months.
Conclusion: The use of a hybrid balancing technique combined with a modified spacer block provided stable knees with great functional outcomes. Higher quality randomized controlled studies are required for a better evaluation of this technique.
Keywords: Total Knee Arthroplasty; Osteoarthritis; Gap Balancing Technique; Modified Spacer Block
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