Abstract
Computer navigation was introduced in Australia in 2000, initially with the use of pre-operative computer scans and then later with image free systems. In 2003 the AOA – NJRR began collecting data for knee replacement performed with computer navigation.
Meta analysis of the literature has shown better coronal and sagittal plane alignment in total knee arthroplasty performed with computer navigation as opposed to standard instrumented knee replacement. At present, however, there is no data on improved outcomes or reduced revision rates. Information was requested from the AOA – NJRR on the use of computer navigation for both uni-compartmental and total knee replacements. This included numbers of navigated knees done per year as well as revision rates and reasons for revisions of knees performed by computer navigation surgery.
Since data collection began there has been 2,651 computer assisted total knee replacements performed which is 4.1% of the total number of knee replacements in this time period. There has been a steady increase in the last three years in the use of computer navigation. There has been an increased number of computer navigated knees performed in the private hospital sector as opposed to the public hospitals and there is a state by state variation in the uptake of navigation. The revision rate per 100 observed ‘component’ years at three years is 2.8 for non computer assisted and 2.5 computer assisted surgery. This is not statistically significant. There is no difference in the early complication rate leading to revision.
The use of computer navigation could be expected to reduce the long term revision rates of knee arthroplasty due to better alignment and potentially less wear. In the short term there is no significant revision rate between the two methods of performing TKR particularly with regard to infection or fracture
The abstracts were prepared by David AF Morgan. Correspondence should be addressed to him at davidafmorgan@aoa.org.au
Declaration of interest: a
