title: The use of postoperative suction drainage in total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials is to assess the effectiveness of no drainage when compared to drainage in total knee arthroplasty, in terms of recovery of knee flexion, reduction in swelling, length of hospital stay and haemoglobin levels following TKA.
  
  
  METHODS
  Six randomised controlled trials were included.
  
  
  RESULTS
  There is no significant difference between the individuals who receive a drain and those who do not across any of the measures examined (p < 0.05). This analysis demonstrates no statistical difference in ROM [mean difference 0.03° (95 %CI -1.51 to 1.45, p = 0.64, I(2) = 0 %)]. , nor in knee circumference [mean difference 1.63 cm (95 % CI -1.07 - 4.34 cm, p = 0.34), [I(2) = 0.12].
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The finding raises the possibility that drains are not required to assist in recovery following TKA.
authors.affiliation: Professorial Unit, National Orthopaedic Hospital, Cappagh, Finglas, Dublin 11, Republic of Ireland.
authors.forename: Mark
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Quinn
authors.forename: Andrea
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Bowe
authors.forename: Rose
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Galvin
authors.forename: Peter
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Dawson
authors.forename: John
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: O'Byrne
mesh_terms: D019645:Arthroplasty, Replacement, Knee / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D004322:Drainage / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007719:Knee Joint / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D007902:Length of Stay; D008297:Male; D020370:Osteoarthritis, Knee / Q000601:surgery*; D011184:Postoperative Period; D020127:Recovery of Function; D013396:Suction / Q000379:methods*; D016896:Treatment Outcome