Sensor-guided technology helps to reproduce medial pivot kinematics in total knee arthroplasty

Abstract

Achieving a well-balanced total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a difficult task, but the use of real-time sensing technology could provide intraoperative dynamic feedback regarding stability and load. This study compared intraoperative data and clinical outcomes between two cohorts, where one cohort had a sensor-guided medial pivot TKA performed. Methods: Two cohorts of 50 patients each were preoperatively matched to receive the same TKA, having a J-curve femoral design with an adapted “medially congruent” polyethylene insert; the second cohort (group B) underwent the intraoperative sensor-check. Intraoperative sensor data were recorded as tibiofemoral load at 10°, 45°, and 90°. We considered stable knees those with a pressure 40 lbs. Surgical time was 8 min longer in the sensor group. Conclusion: The use of this sensing technology did not improve the clinical outcome but supported multiple intraoperative decisions aimed to better reproduce the medial pivot kinematic of the normal knee.