THE EFFECTS OF TIBIAL TRAY ROTATION AND POSTERIOR SLOPE ON KNEE KINEMATICS FOLLOWING TOTAL KNEE REPLACEMENT

Abstract

AIMS: To determine the effects of tibial component rotation and posterior slope on kinematics following Scorpio CR navigated TKR in cadaver specimens.

METHODS AND RESULTS: Knee kinematics were monitored using a validated IR Navigation System. Ten normal comparable cadaver specimens were mounted in a custom rig allowing assessment of kinematics under various loading conditions. The specimens then underwent Navigated TKR. The surgery was performed as per normal operating surgical protocols by an expert knee surgeon. However an augmented tibial component was implanted allowing the researchers to precisely modify its rotation and posterior slope. A pneumatic cylinder attached to the quadriceps tendon was then used to repetitively flex and extend the knee with a variety of applied loads.

Kinematics were different after TKR. Increasing posterior slope resulted in increasing posterior position of the femur, particularly at maximum flexion. Posterior slope also resulted in a deviation of the neutral path of motion and alteration of the normal envelope of laxity. Tibial component malrotations over 5 degrees resulted in deviations of the neutral path of motion without affecting the envelope of laxity. Combined malrotations over 10 degrees with posterior slopes over 6 degrees resulting in prosthetic subluxation under certain loading conditions.

Discussion: Knee kinematics are different after TKR. Increasing internal and external tibial component malrotation as well as the addition of posterior slope resulted in deviations of TKR kinematics through alteration of the neutral path of movement and or the envelope of laxity. Combined misalignments of slope and rotation resulted in the greatest deviations from normal kinematics and in some cases, prosthetic subluxation. Incompatibilities of alignment may result in increased ligament tension and component articulation dysfunction that may contribute to premature wear and loosening. Surgeons should be aware of this when considering the addition of posterior slope or assessing tibial component positioning in TKR.