TOTAL KNEE REPLACEMENT IN ACTIVE GOLFERS

Introduction: The aim of this study was to investigate the function, limitations and disability of a large cohort of active golfers following total knee replacement (TKR). Materials & Methods: The study group comprised the membership of the New Knee Golf Society (NKGS), UK. 211 members were reviewed with a questionnaire which asked the patient’s experience & difficulties of playing golf before and after TKR. The functional outcome was recorded using the Oxford knee score. A total of 299 knees in 209 patients were included in the final analysis. The mean age was 69.6 years. Majority of the prostheses were cemented (95%) and had patellar resurfacing (89.6%). The mean post-operative period was 5.1 years. Results: 196 patients (94%) returned to playing golf after a mean 4.6 months following the TKR. 184 (88%) continue to play at review. 92.8 % claimed significant improvement in their ability to play and enjoy golf following TKR citing reduction in pain and improved walking ability as the reasons. However, none claimed to have achieved a significant improvement in their handicap. 17 knees (5.7%) underwent revision surgery. 6 knees (2%) were revised for infection at mean 17.3 months & 11 (3.7%) for aseptic loosening or instability at mean 4.9 years. 7 left knees (lead knee) of 11 right-handed golfers required revision for aseptic loosening. The main problems experienced after playing 18 holes were knee stiffness (47%) & swelling (18%). Conclusion: Although the ability to play improved the handicap remained the same. The left TKR in a right-handed active golfer is more likely to require revision which may be due to the increased torque on the lead knee.