Does Greater Knee Flexion Increase Patient Function and Satisfaction After Total Knee Arthroplasty?

The purpose of this study was to determine whether high flexion leads to improved benefits in patient satisfaction, perception, and function after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Data were collected on 122 primary TKAs. Patients completed a Total Knee Function Questionnaire. Knees were classified as low (<= 110 degrees), mid (111 degrees -130 degrees), or high flexion (> 130 degrees). Correlation between knee flexion and satisfaction was not statistically significant. Increased knee flexion had a significant positive association with achievement of expectations, restoration of a normal knee, and functional improvement. In conclusion, although the degree of postoperative knee flexion did not affect patient satisfaction, it did influence fulfillment of expectations, functional ability, and knee perception. This suggests that increased knee flexion, particularly more than 130 degrees, may lead to improved outcomes after TKA.