Title : Outcomes of measure resected vs gap balance sized TKR local service evaluation
Abstract:
Introduction: Knee replacement surgeries at Heatherwood Hospital are increasing, with 984 total knee replacements (TKRs) performed in 2024 compared to 698 in 2023 (NJR Report). Two common TKR techniques are measured resection (MR), which uses anatomical landmarks for bone cuts, and gap balancing (GB), which focuses on equal soft tissue tension and symmetrical gaps. Evidence comparing these methods remains inconclusive.
Aim: To compare postoperative outcomes between MR and GB techniques using the Oxford Knee Score (OKS).
•OKS ratings: Excellent (42–48), Good (34–41), Fair (27–33), Poor (0–26).
Methodology: 60 TKRs were performed by a consultant in the second half of 2023 (30 MR, 30 GB).
•Retrospective analysis included demographics (age, sex, BMI), postoperative surgical site infection (SSI), and 18-month OKS.
•Data were compiled using Excel.
Results: GB technique showed superior outcomes: 60% achieved the maximum OKS vs. 43.3% in the MR group.
•80% in the GB group scored Excellent vs. 53.3% in MR.
•Fewer GB patients fell into Good or Fair categories, indicating more consistent results.
•Shorter hospital stays were noted in GB (30%) vs. MR (10.7%).
•MR group had a higher mean BMI (30.94 vs. 26.62).
Conclusions: While broader evidence remains varied, our local evaluation indicates better patient-reported outcomes and shorter hospital stays with the GB technique, without increased complications. Given our high case volume and robust local data, a larger comparative study could help clarify the optimal approach in TKR.
