Comparative study between 2 cm limited quadriceps exposure minimal invasive surgery and conventional total knee arthroplasty in quadriceps function: prospective randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the recovery time and straight leg raising test after total knee replacement between 2 cm limited quadriceps exposure minimally invasive surgery total knee replacement (2cm Quad MIS TKR) and conventional total knee replacement.

MATERIAL AND METHOD: The authors conducted a randomized controlled trial in 40 osteoarthritis knee patients in two groups. Total replacement was performed by the same surgeon and the same prosthesis was used in each group. The function of Quadriceps muscle (straight leg raising test) range of motion was evaluated postoperatively.

RESULTS: The 40 patients enrolled in the present study followed the complete study. After surgery with 2 cm Quad MIS TKA, quadriceps function recovery time was faster than with conventional total knee replacement. The quadriceps function was evaluated by the straight leg raising test (SLRT) in sitting and lay down position and the time of ambulation.

CONCLUSION: Operative treatment with 2 cm Quad MIS TKA improved recovery time in quadriceps function when compared with conventional total knee replacement.