CAN THE ROTATION AND STABILITY OF A PROSTHESIS BE CONTROLLED

Discussion about the use of posterior stabilised or posterior retaining knee prostheses is likely to continue, although there seems to be an international trend towards posterior-sacrificing prosthesis. The remaining controversy hinges on whether stability in flexion is important, whether it is the condylar or epicondylar axis that is important, and whether platform orientation important. This paper discusses the importance of stability. It suggests that neither the epicondylar nor the condylar axis can be used as absolutes, and that platform orientation plays an important role with rotational platform knee systems.