Posterior cruciate condylar total knee arthroplasty. Average 11-year follow-up evaluation

Abstract

Forty-two total knee arthroplasties (TKAs) of the posterior cruciate condylar design performed from 1975 until 1978 were reviewed. Follow-up evaluations averaged 11 years. There were 21 knees each of osteoarthrosis and rheumatoid arthritis. The average postoperative knee score was 85.4 points. Thirty-nine knees (92.8%) were rated good or excellent, one (2.4%) was judged fair, and two (4.8%) were considered failures. Postoperative flexion averaged 104 degrees. Analysis of osteoarthritic versus rheumatoid arthritic subgroups demonstrated no significant differences in motion, alignment, or knee score. Roentgenographic review demonstrated no cases of femoral or tibial loosening, but one case of patellar component dislodgement was observed. Nonprogressive radiolucent lines were observed in 75% of the cases. Good results can be expected if satisfactory lower-extremity alignment is attained. Posterior cruciate ligament retention has provided a slightly improved postoperative range of motion. Residual problems appear to be centered about the patellofemoral joint.