Summary

Coronal plane malalignment of the tibial component significantly detracts from functional outcomes and increases pain levels following total knee arthroplasty.

Abstract

Aim

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a widely performed surgical procedure for the treatment of advanced knee osteoarthritis. The alignment of the tibial component is paramount for achieving optimal postoperative outcomes. This study investigates the influence of coronal plane malalignment of the tibial component on functional outcomes and pain following TKA.

Materials And Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 160 patients who underwent primary TKA between 2016 and 2023. The cohort was divided into two groups: Group A (n=80) with proper tibial component alignment (0±3 degrees) and Group B (n=80) with malalignment (>3 degrees). Functional outcomes were assessed using the Knee Society Score (KSS) and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) at 6 months and 1 year postoperatively. Pain levels were quantified using visual analog scale (VAS) scores.

Results

At the 6-month follow-up, Group A exhibited significantly superior functional outcomes compared to Group B (mean KSS: 82.4 vs. 75.6, p<0.0001; mean WOMAC: 28.3 vs. 35.9, p<0.001). Additionally, VAS scores were lower in Group A (mean VAS: 2.1 vs. 3.8, p=0.01). These trends persisted at the 1-year follow-up, with Group A demonstrating superior functional outcomes and lower pain levels.

Conclusion

Coronal plane malalignment of the tibial component significantly detracts from functional outcomes and increases pain levels following TKA. Ensuring proper alignment is crucial for optimizing postoperative results, minimizing patient discomfort, and enhancing long-term implant survival. Surgeons should strive for precise tibial component positioning to maximize patient satisfaction and surgical success.