Unicondylar Tibiofemoral Arthroplasty - Opinions of the Members of the German Knee Society (DKG) and the German Professional Association of Orthopaedic and Trauma Specialists (BVOU).

BACKGROUND: The number of implanted unicondylar tibiofemoral knee arthroplasties (UKA) is despite the potential advantages in comparison to total knee arthroplasties (TKA) in Germany relatively low. Goal of this survey, initiated by the Small Implants Group of the German Knee Society, was to gather opinions and put them into context of the current literature. METHODS: Based on the Delphi method and the AWMF rules and standards, 19 statements were developed, which were presented to the members of the DKG and BVOU in an anonymous online survey using "SurveyMonkey". Overall, 410 colleagues participated. RESULTS: The biggest detected controversies were the determination of indications with respect to the body mass index and the existence of a patellofemoral arthrosis. A general consent was determined that a contralateral tibiofemoral arthrosis grade III - IV and meniscal deficiency in the contralateral compartment are an absolute contraindication. There was a consent that age is not a limitation for the implantation of an UKA. If a personal minimum volume of 15 implantations/year should be implemented was seen controversial. CONCLUSION: The personal opinion, eventually built by personal experiences, appears to be in conflict with the knowledge of scientific literature in many instances. Intensive training and education appears necessary.      «

BACKGROUND: The number of implanted unicondylar tibiofemoral knee arthroplasties (UKA) is despite the potential advantages in comparison to total knee arthroplasties (TKA) in Germany relatively low. Goal of this survey, initiated by the Small Implants Group of the German Knee Society, was to gather opinions and put them into context of the current literature. METHODS: Based on the Delphi method and the AWMF rules and standards, 19 statements were developed, which were presented to the members of...     »