Does Accurate Anatomical Alignment Result in Better Function and Quality of Life? Comparing Conventional and Computer-Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty

Abstract

This is a randomized prospective controlled trial comparing the alignment, function, and patient quality-of-life outcomes between patients undergoing conventional (CONV) and computer-assisted (CAS) knee arthroplasty. One hundred and fifteen patients (60 CAS, 55 CONV) underwent cemented total knee arthroplasty. Three patients were lost to follow-up. Eighty-eight percent (CAS) vs 61% (CONV) of knees achieved a mechanical axis within 3° of neutral (P = .003). Aligning femoral rotation with the epicondylar axis was accurately achieved in CAS and CONV with no significant difference. Patients with coronal alignment within 3° of neutral had superior International Knee Society and Short-Form 12 phys..