Turkish Journal of
GERIATRICS

Material and Method: 106 patients (7 male, 99 female; mean age: 71.54±4.48) who underwent TKR due to gonarthrosis were included in the study. While preoperative and postoperative (on the second, sixth and discharge days) functional activities of the patients were assessed with Iowa Level of Assistance Scale (ILAS), their walking speed were evaluated with Iowa Ambulation Velocity Scale (IAVS), range of motion with the goniometer, knee functions with Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) knee score, and hospitalization periods and pain levels with the visual analog scale.

Results: It was stated that postoperative functional activity levels and walking speed of the patients (on the second and sixth days) showed a decline when compared with preoperative ones (p<0.05); however, both parameters significantly improved when the patients were discharged (p<0.05). While knee flexion was 100.17±14.66 and extension loss was 3.32±4.54 before the operation, they were 72.79±12.66 and 1.59±1.97 respectively on the discharge day. Preoperative HSS knee score was 58.57±11.99; however, it was 63.53±8.09 on the discharge day. Rest and activity pain levels of the patients on the second, sixth and discharge days after the operation were significantly lower than those before the operation (p<0.05). The mean value of the hospitalization days was 10.60±4.65.

Conclusions: Both functional activities and walking speed of geriatric patients show a significant decline after the TKR operation, which may increase the hospitalization periods of the patients, decrease independence levels and lead to the developments of several complications. Therefore, in order to lead an independent life, transfer and mobility activities should be gained in the early stage, and different rehabilitation options should be developed. Keywords : Geriatric, Gonarthrosis, Total knee replacement, Functional levels, Rehabilitation, Independent