Summary

The very early outcome data for the first in the world VRAS TKA’s is encouraging with this study showing improved pain and function scores compared with the authors extensive experience with Brainlab 3.

Abstract

Introduction

The first VRAS TKA was performed in New Zealand in November 2020 using a Patient Specific Balanced Technique whereby VRAS enables very accurate collection of the bony anatomy and soft tissue envelope of the knee to plan and execute the optimal positioning for a balanced TKA

Method

The first 45 VRAS patients with idiopathic osteoarthritis of the knee was compared with 45 sequential patients who underwent the same TKA surgical technique using Brainlab 3 which the author has used exclusively in over 1500 patients. Surgical time, ROM preop, at discharge, 2 and 6 weeks, rest and activity pain scores at discharge, two and six weeks and patient function at 2 and 6 weeks was collected and compared

Results

VRAS patients had significantly better activity pain scores at discharge (3.7 vs 5.1/10 - p=0.001) and at six weeks (1.5 vs 2.1/10) – p=0.04). . The VRAS function scores were significantly better at two weeks (5.9 vs 5.2/10 – p=0.04) and six weeks (7.4 vs 6.8/10 – p=0.03). There was no difference in the other pain scores and ROM.
The was no difference in the surgical skin to skin time (71.2 mins VRAS vs 70mins Brainlab). The first ten cases were a mean of 10 minutes longer however the second ten cases were time neutral.

Conclusion

The very early outcome data for the first in the world VRAS TKA’s is encouraging with this study showing improved pain and function scores compared with the authors extensive experience with Brainlab 3.