Mid-vastus approach induces milder short-term effects on postural control compared to parapatellar approach in total knee arthroplasty.

Background

Mid-Vastus and Medial Parapatellar techniques are used for total knee arthroplasty. Their short-term effects within the first month after surgery are yet unexplored. The purpose of this study was to compare Mid-Vastus and Medial Parapatellar effects on knee strength and balance control, at 5 days, 2 weeks and one month after surgery. It was hypothesized that Mid-Vastus would induce milder effects on the dependent variables due to its less invasive nature.

Methods

Twenty females, randomly assigned to either the Mid-Vastus or the Medial Parapatellar group performed knee flexion-extension force and 30 s of bipedal stance before, 5 days, 2 weeks and one month after surgery. Maximum force, weight distribution and travel distance of the Center of Pressure were calculated.

Findings

Both groups showed decreased force output at all post-measurements compared to before surgery. Medial Parapatellar group showcased significantly higher travel distance at the 2 weeks measurement (Z = −2.268, p = .023, |r| = 0.507) compared to before surgery. This result was also imprinted on the travel distance of the non-surgical knee limb in the post (t = 3.259, p = .004, d = 1.456), 2 weeks (Z = −2.570, p = .009, |r| = 0.574) and one month measurement (t = 2.653, p = .016, d = 1.185).

Interpretation

While force is affected for both approaches, Mid-Vastus approach does not affect postural control. Therefore, Mid-Vastus is a less invasive technique compared to Medial Parapatellar. This work highlights the differences between Mid-Vastus and Medial Parapatellar approaches at least until the first month of rehabilitation.