Abstract
Aim: To compare the function in two groups of high demand patients with a total knee arthroplasty (TKA) – one group using a posterior cruciate sacrificing (PCS) prosthesis and the other a posterior cruciate retaining (PCR) prosthesis of similar design.
Method: Patients were eligible for the study if they were greater than two years from surgery, less than 65 years of age and without other co-existing morbidity to significantly decrease their physical activities. Group A underwent surgery by one surgeon who routinely retained the posterior cruciate ligament whereas Group B underwent surgery by one surgeon who routinely sacrificed the PCL. A mobile bearing TKA of similar design was used in each group. All patients were selected and assessed by an independent assessor using a questionnaire developed specifically to assess higher levels of activity not usually assessed by other knee scores.
Results: Group A (28 TKA in 20 patients) were matched with Group B (25 TKA in 19 patients) for age, length of follow-up and range of motion. The gross activity score was 3.36 in Group A compared with 3.12 in Group B. The combined walking, running and stair climbing score was significantly better in Group A (7.68 compared to 6.64 in Group B). Group B perceived their TKA was closer to a normal knee (2.00 compared to 2.32) with decreased anterior knee pain.
Conclusions: Retaining the PCL in TKA results in better function without significant complications.
The abstracts were prepared by Professor Alan Thurston. Correspondence should be addressed to him at the New Zealand Orthopaedic Association, PO Box 7451, Wellington, New Zealand.
