Posterior Capsular Release in Soft‐Tissue Balancing to Correct Valgus Deformity and Flexion Contracture During Total Knee Arthroplasty

Abstract Total knee arthroplasty for valgus knee deformities presents many challenging problems, especially in soft‐tissue handling, although many soft‐tissue balancing techniques have been described to date. Posterior capsular release, a soft‐tissue balancing technique used to correct both valgus deformity and flexion contracture during total knee arthroplasty, is described in this technical note. Because this procedure does not sacrifice important lateral stabilizers, varus instability in knee flexion can be avoided. Furthermore, the release is performed just posterior to the femoral condyle without the risk of damaging the lateral collateral ligament and peroneal nerve associated with the posterior capsular division technique. We recommend this procedure as the first‐choice strategy because additional procedures are required in some cases.