Fifty-eight osteoarthritic and thirty-one rheumatoid patients underwent
modular total knee-replacement arthroplasty. The major indication for the
operation was relief of pain. Contraindications to this resurfacing
arthroplasty included varus-valgus instability of over 20 degrees, combined
varus-valgus instability with flexion contracture of over 40 degrees,
marked recurvatum, and predominant patellofemoral symptoms. In 59 per cent
of the osteoarthritic and 58 per cent of the rheumatoid patients, complete
relief of pain was evident when they were evaluated twenty-four months
after surgery, while another 35 per cent of each group had only mild pain
related to inclement weather. Their ability to walk long distances without
support or limp was increased. Range of motion and ability to climb stairs
were not significantly improved.