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European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology

Published in:

01-05-2020 | Original Article

Preliminary experience with an image-free handheld robot for total knee arthroplasty: 77 cases compared with a matched control group

Authors: P. Bollars, A. Boeckxstaens, J. Mievis, S. Kalaai, M. G. M. Schotanus, D. Janssen

Published in: European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology | Issue 4/2020

Abstract

Background

Achieving an optimal limb alignment is an important factor affecting the long-term survival of total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This is the first study to look at the limb alignment and orientation of components in TKA using a novel image-free handheld robotic sculpting system.

Methods

This case-controlled study retrospectively compared limb and component alignment of 77 TKAs performed with a robot (Robot-group) with a matched control group of patients who received conventional alignment with intramedular rods (Control group). Alignment and component positioning was measured on full-leg weight-bearing and standard lateral X-rays by two independent observers. The image-free handheld robotic sculpting system calculated the planned and achieved mechanical axis (MA). Outliers were defined as > 3° deviation from planned alignment.

Results

Mean MA was 180.1° (SD = 1.9) in the Robot-group, compared to the Control group with a mean MA of 179.1° (SD = 3.1, p = 0.028). We observed 5 outliers (6%) in the Robot-group and 14 outliers (18%, p = 0.051) in the Control group. Fraction of outliers of the frontal tibial component was 0% in the Robot-group versus 8% in the Control group (p = 0.038). There were no other statistical differences regarding the implant positioning between both groups.

Conclusion

The Robot-group showed significantly less outliers compared to the conventional technique. Whether these differences are clinically relevant is questionable and should be investigated on the long term. Randomized controlled trials with larger patient series will be needed in the future to confirm our preliminary results.

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Title: Preliminary experience with an image-free handheld robot for total knee arthroplasty: 77 cases compared with a matched control group
Authors: P. Bollars
A. Boeckxstaens
J. Mievis
S. Kalaai
M. G. M. Schotanus
D. Janssen
Publication date: 01-05-2020
Publisher: Springer Paris
Published in: European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology / Issue 4/2020
Print ISSN: 1633-8065
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1068
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00590-020-02624-3

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Preliminary experience with an image-free handheld robot for total knee arthroplasty: 77 cases compared with a matched control group

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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