Total knee arthroplasty

Knee joint replacement or knee arthroplasty is surgery to replace a diseased knee joint with an artificial joint. It is an elective procedure, generally indicated for patients with significant loss of cartilage to bone, experiencing pain, and limited range of motion.

Status: Decision completed

Why is knee arthroplasty being reviewed?

Important questions remain about appropriate patient selection; timing; and clinical indications for knee replacement, as well as information on the use of different surgical approaches; prosthesis types and materials; and its safety and effectiveness and cost effectiveness compared to alternatives. Questions primarily center on when the procedure is most appropriate and for whom, and whether certain types of procedures produce better results.

Primary criteria ranking

  • Safety = Low
  • Efficacy = Low
  • Cost = Med

Documentation

Assessment timeline

  • Draft report published: August 20, 2010
    • Public comment period: August 20 to September 3, 2010
  • Final report published: September 22, 2010
  • HTCC public meeting: October 22, 2010