Description
Muscle condition around the knee, particularly the quadriceps muscle (Q-muscle), is known to influence outcomes after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Various factors could affect Q-muscle recovery after TKA. However, detailed information about the Q-muscle recovery patterns after TKA, the factors influencing recovery, and the effect of various Q-muscle conditions on postoperative outcomes are still unclear.
We aimed to: 1) Evaluate changes in Q-muscle and hamstring strength one year after TKA. 2) Determine the factors associated with Q-muscle recovery after TKA. 3) Evaluate the association between postoperative Q-muscle conditions and clinical outcomes. 4) Determine the effect of preoperative Q-muscle strength on postoperative outcomes.
Q-muscle strength, not hamstring strength, showed a typical recovery pattern during the one-year period after TKA. Younger age and a diagnosis of SONK were related to Q-muscle recovery, but these two factors are uncontrollable. However, this study found that preoperative Q-muscle strength is also related to postoperative outcomes. Therefore, preoperative Q-muscle strength could be an important controllable factor for improving postoperative outcomes. This study suggests the importance of optimal surgical timing (not waiting too long to have TKA) and preoperative patient education to maintain or increase Q-muscle strength for better outcomes after TKA.
