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How much tibial resection is required in total knee arthroplasty?

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Abstract

The purpose of our study was to calculate the optimal tibial resection depth in total knee arthroplasty. The data from 464 navigated total knee arthroplasties were analysed. An implant with a minimum insert thickness of 8 mm was used. Data regarding leg axis, joint line, insert thickness and tibial resection depth were recorded by the navigation device. An algorithm was developed to calculate the optimal tibial resection depth. The required tibial resection significantly correlates with the preoperative leg axis (p < 0.001). In valgus deformities the required resection depth averaged 5.1 mm and was significantly reduced compared to knees with a neutral leg axis (6.8 mm, p < 0.001) and varus deformities (8.0 mm, p < 0.001). Manufacturers recommend undercutting the high side of the tibial plateau to the depth of the thinnest insert available. However, our study demonstrates that in valgus deformities a reduced tibial resection depth is preferable. Hence, unnecessary bone loss can be avoided.

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Conflict of interest

The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. LVR Klinik für Orthopädie, Horionstrasse 2, 41749, Viersen, Germany

    Christoph Schnurr, György Csécsei, Jochen Nessler & Dietmar Pierre König

  2. Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology, University of Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Str. 9, 50924, Cologne, Germany

    Peer Eysel

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  1. Christoph Schnurr
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  2. György Csécsei
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  3. Jochen Nessler
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  5. Dietmar Pierre König
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Correspondence to Christoph Schnurr.

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Schnurr, C., Csécsei, G., Nessler, J. et al. How much tibial resection is required in total knee arthroplasty?. International Orthopaedics (SICOT) 35, 989–994 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00264-010-1025-5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00264-010-1025-5

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