Replacement arthroplasty of the valgus knee - A modified lateral capsular approach with repositioning of vastus lateralis

Total knee arthroplasty (TKR) using a medial capsular approach gives worse results in arthritic knees with valgus deformity than in those in varus, us ually because of swelling, poor wound healing and stiffness, instability, r ecurrent valgus deformity and poor patellar tracking. A technique for replacement TKR of valgus knees using a lateral capsular ap proach was described several years ago, but was not routinely adopted becau se of the difficulties with and complexity of the procedure which included deliberate elevation of the tibial tubercle. In order to avoid this we have modified and simplified the procedure. Our preliminary results suggest tha t this lateral approach is safe and may give a better outcome than that thr ough the medial capsule for the replacement of valgus knees.