Summary

To evaluate the evolution of patients with arthrofibrosis after total knee replacement (TKR) after mobilization under anesthesia (MUA).

Abstract

Introduction

Arthrofibrosis is a frequent complication after a Total Knee Replacement (TKR). One treatment option is Mobilization Under Anesthesia (MUA), and its indication and real benefits are still the subject of debate.

Objective

To evaluate the evolution of patients with arthrofibrosis after total knee replacement (TKR) after mobilization under anesthesia (MUA).

Methods

28 patients operated on for primary TKR who evolved with arthrofibrosis and required MUA between 2009 and 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. The following data was analyzed: Demographic data, preoperative radiographs, surgical times, visual analog scale (VAS), joint ranges before and immediately after the MBA and 3 months after the procedure, criteria used to indicate the MBA, rehabilitation protocols and KOOS score results. The data was analyzed with the STATA 14 program.

Results

Of the total number of patients evaluated, 23 were women and 5 men with an average age of 63 years (52 - 81 years). The average follow-up was 10.8 months (6 -24 months). In 96.4% of cases, the indication for MUA was due to a range of motion less than 90º at 3 months postoperative. The grade of average extension deficit prior to MBA and at 3 months of follow-up was 4.4º and 3º, respectively (p>0.05), instead, the range of flexion was 81º vs 110º, respectively (p<0.05).

Conclusion

The MUA in patients with knee stiffness after TKR seems to be effective in recovering the flexion deficit, although its role in extension cannot be concluded in this work. The results in function are favorable in the short term. Studies with longer follow-up would be recommended.