Orthopedic Management of Total Knee Arthroplasty in the Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is known to be most successful procedure for advanced knee rheumatoid arthritis. If it is performed with meticulous pre-operative assessment and preparation, appropriate surgical technique, and efficient post-operative rehabilitation it has the potential to improve functionality and overall quality of life. Because of the early degeneration of knee joints, RA patients are younger at TKA and the potential revision rate may be increased in this patient population. In addition, bone and soft tissue are poorer and also deformity patterns are different from other patients. Therefore this population requires special attention in the orthopedic management. The aim of the present article was to describe current perspectives of total knee arthroplasty in the patients with RA.