Retrospective comparative study shows no significant difference in postural stability between cruciate-retaining (CR) and cruciate-substituting (PS) total knee implant systems

Purpose Modified postural stability after retaining the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) in total knee arthroplasty is still discussed controversially. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether a PCL-retaining implant design should be preferred over a PCL-substituting implant design regarding postural stability in one-leg stance and clinical outcome. Methods Forty patients underwent total knee arthroplasty, 20 of them with a cruciate-retaining (CR) and 20 of them with a cruciate-substituting (PS) implant system. Postural stability was analysed 6 months postoperatively in one-leg stance using the Biodex Balance System. In addition, the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) and Knee Society Score were completed. Results This study shows that there is no significant difference in postural stability between CR and PS) implant systems with PS implants showing better results in WOMAC score. Conclusions In case it is necessary to use a PS implant, no negative influence on postural stability is to be expected compared to a CR implant.