Infrapatellar fat pad was totally excised during total knee arthroplasty in patients randomized to this group.

Infrapatellar fat pad was partially excised during total knee arthroplasty in patients randomized to this group.

Exposure for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) commonly includes total excision of the infrapatellar fat pad (IPFP). The rationale behind this is to obtain improved access to the lateral tibial plateau allowing a more accurate bone cut, baseplate placement and easier management of soft tissue interposition in the bone and cement interface. However, there is growing concern that as the IPFP is a highly vascularized and innervated fibrous adipose tissue filling the anterior compartment of the knee, its complete excision may have a detrimental effect on knee biomechanics and ultimately, TKA outcome. The reason for this effect has been suggested to be patellar tendon (PT) scarring and shortening via ischemic contracture following impaired vascularization, maintenance and biological repair of the tendon.

Change in peak knee extensor torque from baseline (preoperatively) to 12 months post implantation was evaluated for the operated knee under the supervision of the same physiatrist. The Isokinetic measurements were performed using a Biodex System III Isokinetic Dynamometer, version 3.03 (Biodex Medical Inc.,Shirley, NY, USA). Concentric isokinetic knee flexion-extensions were assessed at a preset velocity of 60º/sec, over a range of motion of 0º to 110º for both parameters. A fixed number of 10 flexion-extension repetitions was completed by each patient. Torque was assessed in Newton-meters (N m).

Change in peak knee flexor torque from baseline (preoperatively) to 12 months post implantation was evaluated for the operated knee under the supervision of the same physiatrist. The Isokinetic measurements were performed using a Biodex System III Isokinetic Dynamometer, version 3.03 (Biodex Medical Inc.,Shirley, NY, USA). Concentric isokinetic knee flexion-extensions were assessed at a preset velocity of 60º/sec, over a range of motion of 0º to 110º for both parameters. A fixed number of 10 flexion-extension repetitions was completed by each patient. Torque was assessed in Newton-meters (N m).

Change in the Knee Society Score from baseline (preoperatively) to 12 months post implantation was evaluated.

The Knee Society Score (KSS) is comprised to two sections (each worth 100 points) for a maximum 200 points. One section is the Knee Society Clinical Score (KSCS) - points are given for pain, motion, and stability and points are deducted for flexion contracture, extension lag, and misalignment. The other section is the Knee Society Functional Score (KSFS) - points are assigned for walking distances and climbing stairs and points are deducted for use of walking aids. For each section, a score of 80-100 = excellent, 70-79 = good; 60-69 = fair; and < 60 = poor.