Patellar non-eversion in primary TKA reduces the complication rate

Five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing patellar non-eversion and patellar eversion in otherwise standardized total knee arthroplasty procedures were selected for inclusion. The primary purpose of this study was to comparing clinical outcome measures between groups. Statistical pooling was not performed for clinical outcomes measures of the Oxford Hip Score, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), and Knee Society Score (KSS), though results from individual studies reported no significant between-group differences. Individual study results on quadriceps strength and knee range of motion were mixed. Pooled results demonstrated a significantly shorter tourniquet time with patellar eversion, and a significantly shorter length of hospital stay with patellar non-eversion based on low-quality evidence (GRADE).