Early and mid-term results with the ATTUNE total knee replacement system compared to PFC Sigma: a prospective comparative study

Purpose Up to 20% of all patients are not satisfied with the result after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). To improve patient satisfaction manufacturers have modified prosthesis design. The ATTUNE prosthesis is a modified version of the PFC Sigma. Aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome at 6 months and 5 years after TKA with ATTUNE compared to PFC Sigma. Methods Sixty patients were included prospectively (30 ATTUNE vs. 30 PFC Sigma). Knee Society Score and Hospital for Special Surgery Score were recorded preoperatively, at 6 months and at least 5 years postoperatively. At 5-years follow-up X-rays in two planes were evaluated, radiolucent lines were documented. Results Patient characteristics were similar in both groups. Both ATTUNE and PFC Sigma provided good to excellent clinical results. There were no statistically significant differences based on the overall scores and patient rated outcome measures. Nevertheless, patients in the ATTUNE group tended to be symptom-free earlier and to achieve better clinical results after 5 years. Conclusion Even with the scores not being significantly different here, the modified design of ATTUNE could increase long-term satisfaction with the implant and reduce the need for revision surgery. However, long-term results are required to prove this.