Effect of surgical closing in total knee arthroplasty at flexion or extension: a prospective, randomized study

29 patients scheduled for total knee arthroplasty were randomized to have wound closure performed with the knee in flexion or extension. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether there were any differences in knee range of motion, patient-reported function, or isokinetic strength between knees based on position of the knee during surgical closure. Results were assessed at 1 month postoperatively. Groups were observed to not significantly differ in knee ROM and function or absolute isokinetic strength. When strength difference between the operated knee and contralateral knee was compared between groups at 180deg/s, the group closed in flexion demonstrated favourable flexor strength. Extensor strength difference at 180deg/s was not significantly different between groups, and neither flexor or extensor strength was different at 60deg/s.