Clinical Outcomes of Total Knee Replacement in Obese Patients: A Prospective Study Using WOMAC Scores with a 1-Year Follow-up

Abstract Objective: This prospective observational cohort study aimed to evaluate the functional outcomes of total knee replacement (TKR) in obese patients using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores preoperatively and at 1-year postoperatively. Materials and Methods: Thirty-one obese patients (mean age 60.27 years; BMI 28.73 kg/m²) undergoing primary TKR for knee osteoarthritis were included. WOMAC scores (pain, stiffness, and physical function) were assessed preoperatively and at 12 months postoperatively. Statistical analysis included paired t tests to compare pre- and postoperative scores. Results: All patients demonstrated a significant improvement in WOMAC scores post-TKR. The mean difference in the WOMAC score was −39.4 points ( P < 0.001), indicating a substantial reduction in pain and improvement in physical function. Patient demographics showed a predominantly female (93.3%) cohort. Age and BMI did not significantly correlate with changes in WOMAC scores ( P > 0.05). Conclusion: TKR in obese patients resulted in significant functional improvement, as evidenced by reduced WOMAC scores at the 1-year follow-up. These findings underscore the effectiveness of TKR in managing knee osteoarthritis in obese individuals.