Functional Outcome in Obese Patients Undergoing Image-Based Cruciate Retaining Robotic-Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty Using the Subvastus Approach: A Short-Term Study

Introduction Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent degenerative joint disease that significantly affects quality of life, especially among obese and morbidly obese individuals. Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is an effective treatment for end-stage OA, but it presents unique challenges in obese patients. The mini-subvastus approach (SA) and robotic-assisted TKA (RA-TKA) are emerging techniques that may address these challenges. This study evaluates the clinical and radiological outcomes of cruciate-retaining (CR) RA-TKA using the mini-subvastus approach in obese and morbidly obese patients. Methods This study included 114 obese patients (215 knees) with primary OA who underwent CR RA-TKA (Maxx Meril CR knee, USA) using the Cuvis Joint® robotic system. Patients had a BMI of ≥30 kg/m² (n=101) and morbid obesity with a BMI ≥40 kg/m² (n=13). Preoperative planning involved CT scans and the J-planner for optimal implant size and positioning. Surgery was performed without tourniquets, and patients were mobilized postoperatively. Clinical outcomes were assessed using visual analog scale (VAS) scores and the American Knee Society Score (AKSS) at three and six months. Results The study included 85 females and 29 males with an average age of 61.8 years. Satisfactory knee exposure was achieved in all cases using SA, with no major complications such as wound infections, deep vein thrombosis, or component misalignment. Intraoperative challenges were managed effectively, including two cases of medial collateral ligament avulsion and one partial patellar tendon avulsion. Postoperative VAS scores showed significant pain reduction from pre-op (6.54) to post-op day 3 (1.3). AKSS improved from a pre-op average of 33.9 to 70.7 at three months and 80.9 at six months. Most patients (80%) achieved exceptional range of motion (ROM) ≥120° at six months. Discussion The mini-subvastus approach in RA-TKA offers several advantages, including reduced postoperative pain, faster recovery, and improved quadriceps strength, even in obese patients. The use of robotic assistance ensures accurate component positioning and alignment, mitigating the challenges typically associated with obese patients undergoing TKA. Conclusion The study demonstrates the feasibility and effectiveness of CR RA-TKA using the mini-subvastus approach in obese and morbidly obese patients. This technique provides adequate exposure, reduces pain, and promotes early mobilization and recovery with satisfactory clinical and radiological outcomes. The findings support the potential for wider adoption of this approach in managing knee OA in obese populations, though further studies with longer follow-up are warranted.