title: Computer-assisted gap equalization in total knee arthroplasty.
abstract: This in vitro biomechanical study compared a conventional balancing technique in knee arthroplasty to a technique using computer assistance. The experimental technique used a soft tissue tensioner instrumented with computer-monitored load cells to quantify soft tissue tension. To assess outcome, a tibial load transducer measured medial and lateral compartment forces and tibial rotation. An electromagnetic tracking system quantified knee position under simulated muscle loading. The computer-assisted technique improved knee balance before insertion of components. However, once components were implanted, there was no difference in knee load balance between the 2 techniques. No correlation was shown between compartmental load balance and tibial rotation or mechanical axis misalignment. Although computer-assisted surgery may improve technical accuracy, further work is necessary to achieve an optimal final knee load balance.
authors.affiliation: Hand and Upper Limb Clinic, St. Joseph's Health Centre, University of Western, Ontario, London, Canada.
authors.forename: Darius G
authors.initials: DG
authors.lastname: Viskontas
authors.forename: Tomas V
authors.initials: TV
authors.lastname: Skrinskas
authors.forename: James A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Johnson
authors.forename: Graham J
authors.initials: GJ
authors.lastname: King
authors.forename: Mitchell J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Winemaker
authors.forename: David G
authors.initials: DG
authors.lastname: Chess
mesh_terms: D019645:Arthroplasty, Replacement, Knee / Q000379:methods*; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D006801:Humans; D007719:Knee Joint / Q000503:physiopathology; D012399:Rotation; D025321:Surgery, Computer-Assisted; D013977:Tibia / Q000503:physiopathology; D016896:Treatment Outcome