Rotational Kinematics of a Modern Fixed-Bearing Posterior Stabilized Total Knee Arthroplasty

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the rotational kinematics of a fixed-bearing posteriorly stabilized total knee design in moderate and deep flexion. Three-dimensional kinematics analyses were conducted on 20 knees in 4 weight-bearing positions using 3-dimensional shape-matching techniques. Average maximum skeletal flexion was 138°. Internal tibial rotation was demonstrated in 19 of 20 knees. The average internal tibial rotation in midflexed lunge was 5.5° (−3.8° to 14.1°) and in maximum flexion kneeling was 4.0° (−3.1° to 10.6°). Separation of articular surfaces was not identified. In this study, patients with this device demonstrated patterns of rotation similar to those previously reported for both the normal knee and rotating platform designs.