Abstract :
I
n the present editorial, I would like to comment on
eleven recent articles that broaden our understanding
of the controversial issues pertinent to total knee
arthroplasty (TKA).
TKA: With or Without a Tourniquet?
Nicolaiuc et al. found no relationship between the
postoperative outcome (in terms of post-surgical pain
based on a numeric rating scale, as well as the need for
analgesics, and function based on the range of motion
and walking tests) and the use of tourniquet (1).
However, two recent articles seem to indicate that there
is no definite guideline for use or non-use of tourniquet
(2, 3). I personally suppose that tourniquet should be
inflated only during cementation.
Antibiotic-impregnated bone cement in primary
TKA?
The results of the study carried out by Anis et al. on
infection rates after primary TKA found no difference
between the use or non-use of antibiotic-impregnated
bone cement (4). In addition, the findings of a metaanalysis conducted by Kleppel et al. confirmed that
there is no difference in primary TKA; however, a
significant difference exists in revision TKA (5).
Zip device or staples for skin closure in TKA?
The results of a randomized controlled study carried
out by Benner et al. revealed that skin closure with a
zip device produces less postoperative pain, better scar
appearance, and better range of motion, as compared to
