What is the ideal degree of extension after primary total knee arthroplasty?

Abstract Background Few studies have examined flexion contracture at the time of primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) or how flexion contracture changes over time. The purpose of this study was to assess the ideal degree of extension immediately after TKA and to document postoperative changes in extension and clinical outcomes over 5-year follow up. Methods This retrospective cohort study included 215 cases of primary TKA. Radiographic evaluations were performed on sagittal radiographs with the patient in the supine position and the knee in gravity and in passive extension using a stress device. Clinical outcomes were also measured. Four groups were defined on the basis of the extension angle during radiological evaluation: Group 1, -10° to 0°; Group 2, >0° to +5°; Group 3, >+5° to +10°; Group 4, >+10° in gravity. Results There were statistically significant differences in passive extension and gravity extension angles in groups 1, 3, and 4 with time-dependent and time*group (passive vs. gravity) analyses, but not in group 2. The flexion contracture angles over 10° in gravity were decreased, although over 5° of flexion contracture remained at the final follow-up. Clinical outcomes were worse in groups 1 and 4 at the final follow-up. Conclusion An extension angle between 0° and 5° in the passive extension position immediately after TKA can be considered ideal at up to 5 years of follow-up. Patients with flexion contracture greater than 5° in passive extension and patients with hyperextension should be followed to assess whether the condition will worsen.