Extract
Stiffness following total knee arthroplasty is a disabling
complication1-7.
Although some predisposing factors have been identified, in most cases the
exact etiology of the stiffness cannot be discerned. The reported prevalence
of this complication has ranged widely from 1.3% to
12%1,8-10.
The difference in rate may be due in part to varied definitions of
stiffness11.
Several factors affecting the postoperative range of motion that have been
identified include the preoperative range of motion, contracture of the
extensor mechanism and capsular structure, the preoperative diagnosis,
personality of the patient, lack of patient compliance with the rehabilitation
protocol, and the patient's threshold for
pain12-18.