Abstract
100 pre-operative and post-operative knee and function scores were analysed to assess whether a low pre-operative score was related to a poorer outcome, ie, are we operating too late? A two tailed student “t” test was performed showing that a pre-operative “function “ score of less than 30, resulted in a lower post-operative “function” score and the difference was statistically significant. These patients also showed the greatest improvement in scores and were the most satisfied with surgery. However, a low pre-operative “knee” score could not be related to a low post-operative “knee” score. Patients who had either a “knee” or “function” score of greater than 60 made no statistically significant improvement in either score. In conclusion, the pre-operative “knee” score is not a reliable indicator for when to perform surgery. However, the “pre-operative “ function score should be given more credence, along with clinical judgement, as it would appear that operating too late adversely affects the functional outcome of total knee arthroplasty.
The abstracts were prepared by Mr Simon Donell. Correspondence should be addressed to him at the Department of Orthopaedics, Norfolk & Norwich Hospital, Level 4, Centre Block, Colney Lane, Norwich NR4 7UY, United Kingdom.
