Abstract
Introduction
The Oxford Knee Score is a well validated, commonly used scoring system. Previous studies have suggested that the score is influenced by demographic differences between patients in particular the functional component more than the pain and clinical components. The aim of this study was to further assess this using a large number of patients.
Methods
The pre, 3 months and 12 months post-surgical Oxford Knee Scores were collected from 1492 patients from five distinct demographic locations undergoing total knee arthroplasty over twelve years under the care of 8 different consultants. A total of 735 patients had complete data sets. The scores were than analysed to test whether age, postcode, sex or consultant in charge had any significant effects on the outcome.
Results
No significant difference in outcome was found between the five locations used in the study. This was also the case when different consultants were compared however when the results are adjusted for age there was a significant difference (p=0.019). In this study female patients had higher scores at both 3 and 12 months (significance p=0.011 and 0.044 respectively). Age of patient was also found to be of borderline significance when determining the post-operative scores.
Conclusion
This large patient sample study shows that the Oxford Knee Score in post-operative patients is not as heavily influenced by demography as previously suggested. The results show that patients who are older and/or male will have better outcomes from knee arthroplasty. Individual surgeons do not significantly affect the outcome although some surgeons may have better results when age of patient is taken into account. Lastly, post code and life style has no significant influence on the outcome neither should be taken for any consideration for surgery.
