Equivalent results of medial and lateral parapatellar approach for total knee arthroplasty in mild valgus deformities

Purpose When performing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in valgus knee deformities, a medial or lateral parapatellar approach can be performed, but the lateral approach is often considered technically more difficult. The purpose of this study was to compare intra-operative, early clinical and radiological outcomes of medial and lateral parapatellar approaches for TKA in the setting of moderate knee valgus (<10 degrees). Methods We prospectively analysed 424 knees with preoperative valgus deformity between 3 degrees and 10 degrees that underwent TKA over an 18-year period; 109 were treated with a medial approach and 315 with a lateral approach. Intra-and post-operative outcomes and complication rates after a minimum follow-up of one year were compared. Results Tourniquet (p = 0.25) and surgical (p = 0.62) time were similar between groups. The popliteus tendon was released more frequently in the medial-approach group (p = 0.04), while the iliotibial band was released more frequently in the lateral-approach group (p < 0.001). A tibial tuberosity osteotomy was performed more frequently in the lateral-than medial-approach group (p = 0.003). No significant differences in limb alignment (p = 0.78), or Knee Society Score (KSS) knee (p = 0.32) and function (p = 0.47) results were noted based on surgical approach, and complication rates were similar between groups (p = 0.53). Conclusions Lateral parapatellar approach is a safe and effective surgical technique for performing TKA in moderately valgus knees. These equivalent early results are encouraging for systematic use of the lateral approach in moderately valgus knees.