Total knee arthroplasty in rheumatoid arthritis: a mid-term study results

Total knee arthroplasty in patients with rheumatoid arthritis is associated with some problems, and yet is an effective method for management of knee ailments in these patients. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate the results of this procedure in a series of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Fourteen patients (23 knees) with rheumatoid arthritis who underwent knee arthroplasty were recruited. Clinical and radiographic results including knee score and functional score, radiographic score, the amount of deformity correction, the length of recovery time and complications were evaluated. All patients were female, with mean age of 64.8 years and were followed for an average of 50.3 months. Average knee range of motion had increased from 87 degrees to 108 degrees postoperatively (p=0.002). The mean knee and functional score were 93 (4.49 SD) and 73 (27.99 SD), respectively. None of the patients had radiographic signs of loosening. Total knee arthroplasty in patients with rheumatoid arthritis improved performance, reduced pain, increased range of motion and corrected knee deformities, but nonetheless was associated with few complications.