BACKGROUND: Arthrotic deformities with changes in knee geometry can produce difficulties in implanting long stem knee prosthesis systems using intramedullary alignment. They can result in incorrect lower limb axis and prosthesis positioning. The aim of the presented study was to measure knee geometry in patients with varus and valgus gonarthrosis in order to define diagnosis related differences. METHODS: A total of 75 patients with indication for total knee arthroplasty were divided in two groups using the weight bearing lower limb axis: patients with varus gonarthrosis (n=43) and with valgus gonarthrosis (n=32). Angles and extensions, important for knee prosthesis implantation, were measured, digitalized and analyzed. The results were investigated for diagnosis specific differences. RESULTS: After regulation of the measured extension in mean femur/tibia lengths, significant diagnosis specific differences were found: femur condyles were widened towards pathologic weight bearing (P<0.044), and the mechanical tibia axis of the varus gonarthrosis group is transferred to the lateral side (P<0.046) and in projection over the lateral internal cortical substance. CONCLUSION: The significant differences in deformed arthrotic knees indicate that for an optimal postoperative result the use of standard implants is not always sufficient. Modular knee prosthesis systems can provide adequately for individual demands.
BACKGROUND:Arthrotic deformities with changes in knee geometry can produce difficulties in implanting long stem knee prosthesis systems using intramedullary alignment. They can result in incorrect lower limb axis and prosthesis positioning. The aim of the presented study was to measure knee geometry in patients with varus and valgus gonarthrosis in order to define diagnosis related differences. METHODS: A total of 75 patients with indication for total knee arthroplasty were divided in two groups using the weight bearing lower limb axis: patients with varus gonarthrosis (n=43) and with valgus gonarthrosis (n=32). Angles and extensions, important for knee prosthesis implantation, were measured, digitalized and analyzed. The results were investigated for diagnosis specific differences. RESULTS: After regulation of the measured extension in mean femur/tibia lengths, significant diagnosis specific differences were found: femur condyles were widened towards pathologic weight bearing (P<0.044), and the mechanical tibia axis of the varus gonarthrosis group is transferred to the lateral side (P<0.046) and in projection over the lateral internal cortical substance. CONCLUSION: The significant differences in deformed arthrotic knees indicate that for an optimal postoperative result the use of standard implants is not always sufficient. Modular knee prosthesis systems can provide adequately for individual demands.