Functional Outcomes After Total Knee or Hip Arthroplasty

Authors

  • Avijit Datta Senior Resident, MS (Orthopaedic), Department of Orthopaedic, Burdwan Medical College and Hospital, Baburbag, Baburbag, Purba Bardhaman, Pin-713104

Abstract

Introduction: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and total hip arthroplasty (THA) are effective surgical interventions for end-stage osteoarthritis and other degenerative joint diseases. While pain relief is well established, assessment of functional outcomes and quality of life postoperatively remains critical for evaluating overall success. This study aimed to assess functional outcomes in patients undergoing primary or revision total knee or hip arthroplasty. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Orthopaedics, Burdwan Medical College & Hospital, from June 2023 to June 2024, including 40 adult patients undergoing primary or revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) or total hip arthroplasty (THA). Patients were evaluated for demographic variables such as age, gender, and BMI, along with comorbidities. Clinical outcomes were assessed using validated functional scores (WOMAC, KSS for TKA; HOOS for THA), pain scores (VAS), range of motion (ROM), and objective performance tests (6-minute walk test and Timed Up & Go test). Postoperative complications were recorded and analyzed. Data were collected systematically and subjected to appropriate statistical analysis to evaluate functional outcomes, pain relief, and complication rates following arthroplasty. Results: This study of 40 patients (20 TKA, 20 THA) demonstrated significant postoperative improvements in pain, function, and mobility with both procedures. TKA patients showed reductions in WOMAC (58.6 to 23.4) and gains in KSS (45.7 to 85.2), while THA patients improved in HOOS (55.3 to 20.7) (all p < 0.001). ROM, VAS, 6-minute walk distance, and TUG time improved significantly in both groups, with no significant difference in complication rates (3 cases each). Pearson's correlation confirmed a strong negative association between pain reduction and functional improvement (TKA: r = -0.65, p = 0.002; THA: r = -0.58, p = 0.006). Conclusion: Total knee and hip arthroplasty provide significant improvement in pain relief and functional outcomes. Early postoperative rehabilitation and careful patient selection contribute to favorable results. These procedures demonstrate high efficacy and safety, significantly enhancing the quality of life in patients with degenerative joint disease.

Keywords:

Total Knee Arthroplasty, Total Hip Arthroplasty, Functional Outcome, Knee Society Score, Harris Hip Score, Pain Relief

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Published

2025-09-01
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Vol. 16 No. 9 (2025): Volume16,Issue9

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Articles