Total knee arthroplasty using the OrthoPilot computer-assisted surgical navigation system.

Background. Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is currently the "gold standard" in the treatment of advanced gonarthrosis. Improved range of motion, reduced pain, and correction of the limb axis, which are the main treatment goals, depend on proper surgical technique. The usable life of the knee prosthesis and the patient's comfort are the main criteria for evaluating long-term surgical outcome in TKA. The results from 10 years of follow-up in various publications indicate a 80-95% survivial rate for the prosthesis. The key factors influencing the endurance of good surgical outcome and the wear on implant components are restoration of the proper joint axis and even distribution of surface load on the elements of the prosthesis. Surgical techniques assisted by computer navigation have been developed to increase the precision of placement of implant elements and extend the usable life of the knee prosthesis. Material and methods. . In this article we evaluated post-operatively 75 cases of TKA performed with the OrthoPilot computer navigation system. The placement of the prosthesis elements was evaluated on the basis of long AP x-ray images made with the patient in standing position. Results. On the average, the placement of the tibial component was found to be 1.7 degrees varus. The average valgus angle of the knee was 5 degrees (range 3-8 degrees ). The average Q wedge in our material was 6.5 degrees . Conclusions. The OrthoPilot computer navigation system enables greater precision in the placement of knee prostheses.