Important Topics on Contemporary Total knee Arthroplasty: What Does Recent Literature Say?

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