Biochemical, Functional, and Neuromuscular Markers Before and After Total Knee Arthroplasty in Patients With Osteoarthritis: Partial Results
M. Mandarino, Y.R. Razuck, G. Halmenschlager, J.L.R. De Faria, R. Salim, T. LemosObjective:
To investigate the effects of total knee arthroplasty on functionality, relating postoperative changes to preoperative neuromuscular and biochemical parameters.
Methods:
A case series of patients with knee osteoarthritis undergoing arthroplasty. Clinical signs (WOMAC, FJS), functional performance (TUG, sit-to-stand test, single-leg balance), and knee extensor torque (isometric dynamometry) were assessed preoperatively and at 6 and 12 months. Serum biochemical markers (IGF-1, CRP, ESR, D-dimer) were analyzed preoperatively.
Results:
Partial results of the study will be presented. Significant clinical and functional improvement was observed, with a reduction in the total WOMAC score (from 67 [61-82] to 41 [4-47] points; P<0.001) and improvement in the TUG (P=0.002), sit-to-stand test (P=0.005), and balance on the operated limb (P=0.007). The extensor torque of the operated knee did not show significant change (P=0.146). The final FJS was 70 [36-86] points. The characterized sample (N=38) had a female predominance (68.4%), with women showing higher serum levels of CRP and ESR (p<0.05).
Conclusion:
Initial results indicate that arthroplasty provides significant pain relief and improves function and balance after 12 months, even in the absence of gains in muscle strength of the operated limb. Differences in inflammatory profiles between sexes warrant future investigation. The conclusion regarding the relationship between biomarkers and functional recovery awaits the completion of sampling and integrated statistical analyses.