Inconsistent relationship between body weight/body mass index prior to total knee arthroplasty and the 12-year survival

Abstract Background The primary hypothesis was that body weight (BW) and body mass index (BMI) significantly impact the long-term survival rate after implantation of a mobile bearing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Methods A national, multicentric, retrospective study was performed in France. A total of 1604 TKAs were included. The 10-year follow-up was documented, and the influence of BW and BMI on the survival rate was assessed. Results There was a significant influence of the BW on the 12-year survival rate for any reason and for infection; but this influence was not proportional to the BW or BMI. There was no significant influence of the BMI on the 12-year survival rate for any reason, for any mechanical reason or for infection. Conclusion Our results suggest that a higher BMI should not be considered as a risk factor for revision for mechanical purpose if a mobile bearing TKA with confirming design is implanted.