OBJECTIVE: To evaluate knee range of motion (ROM) after at least six months postoperatively in total knee arthroplasty, by comparing it to baseline value. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ranges of motion of eighty arthroplasties were analyzed within an average follow-up of 21.9 months. RESULTS: No significant differences between pre- and postoperative averages for extension (p=0.09) and flexion (p=0.47) were found. By dividing the patients into two groups, a significant flexion improvement was seen in those with pre-op flexion equal or smaller than 90º (n=17) (p=0.000037). In the other group, a significant decrease in flexion was seen in those with pre-op flexion equal or greater than 120º (n=31) (p=0.000068). Four patients have been submitted to knee manipulations within an average of 2.1 months postoperatively. The mean flexion rate before manipulation and after six months was significantly different (p=0.0068). The mean pre-op flexion and after six months postoperatively was similar (p=0.28). CONCLUSION: Preoperative flexion significantly influences the post-op flexion in total knee arthroplasty. Its measurement provides the surgeon with a good parameter for previewing this.
Range of motion; Arthroplasty; Knee
