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Published in: International Orthopaedics 12/2014

01-12-2014 | Original Paper

Removal of the infrapatella fat pad during total knee arthroplasty: does it affect patient outcomes?

Authors: Robert Moverley, Derfel Williams, Nikolaos Bardakos, Richard Field

Published in: International Orthopaedics | Issue 12/2014

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Abstract

Purpose

The function of the infrapatella fat pad (IFP) is debated, but it is thought to have a biomechanical and biological role. Removal of the IFP during total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains a matter of surgeon preference. This study sought to establish if removal of the IFP during TKA affected patient outcome.

Methods

Excision of the IFP (not removed, partially excised, or fully excised) and outcome data (Oxford knee Score (OKS) and EQ-5D) were recorded for 1,401 patients (1,417 TKA). There were no differences in the pre-operative scores between the groups.

Results

OKS and EQ-5D one-year postoperatively demonstrated significantly (p < 0.05 ANOVA) improved total scores with preservation of the IFP. Patients with the IFP preserved had significantly better OKS associated with rising from a chair, pain, limping, giving way, and pain interfering with work.

Conclusions

This study suggests that preservation of the fat pad during TKA is associated with improved outcome. Surgeons routinely undertaking excision of the IFP should reflect whether this is clinically indicated and consider limiting IFP resection, if possible.
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Metadata
Title
Removal of the infrapatella fat pad during total knee arthroplasty: does it affect patient outcomes?
Authors
Robert Moverley
Derfel Williams
Nikolaos Bardakos
Richard Field
Publication date
01-12-2014
Publisher
Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in
International Orthopaedics / Issue 12/2014
Print ISSN: 0341-2695
Electronic ISSN: 1432-5195
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00264-014-2427-6

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