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Objective: To identify the prevalence rate and fall-risk in Thai TKA patients.
Material and Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted among patients with TKA diagnosed with primary OA who living in the community.
Results: There were 54 patients (46 females, 8 males). Mean time between surgery and interview was 38.9±16.6 (7-73) months. The one-year prevalence of falls among patients was 42.6% (23/54 patients): total frequency was 34 times (1-4 times/case). Three fallers needed treatment: one by open reduction and internal fixation with plate and screws of periprosthetic fracture of the femur, and the others needed hospitalization due to hemathrosis of non-TKA knees. The WOMAC pain and stiffness scores were significantly higher in the faller group than the non-faller group. Limitation of joint motion was the main fall-risk factor (OR 6.3; 95% CI 1-67.2, p<0.05).
Conclusion: The prevalence rate of falls for this group of TKA patients was about 42%. Limited motion and pain of the knee joint were associated with falls in this study group.
Keywords: Elderly, Falls, Total knee arthroplasty, Community