Abstract
Total knee arthroplasty in valgus knees represents a greater challenge than in varus knees because of the greater difficulty in achieving ligamentous equilibrium and good patellar tracking.
The purpose of this study was to clarify the utility of the modified lateral approach for valgus knee and to describe useful technical tips. Ten valgus knees were treated using the modified lateral approach starting in May 2005 (lateral group), and compared with 6 valgus knees treated using the medial approach before May 2005 (medial group). Clinically, both groups achieved good outcomes. Radiologically the lateral group showed better improvement for patellar tracking than the medial group. We conclude that the modified lateral approach provides better results than the conventional medial approach in valgus knee.
