Fixed Bearings versus Rotating Platforms in Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Overview

Rotating platforms were introduced as an alternative to fixed bearings in hopes of providing more natural kinematics and improved clinical outcomes. In-vitro wear studies showed significantly less wear with rotating platforms as opposed to fixed-bearing designs. Kinematic follow-up studies showed significantly improved axial rotation with rotating-platform knees. However, these benefits have failed to translate into improved clinical outcomes or survivorship. This article reviews our institution's experience, as well as the latest clinical research on wear, kinematics, clinical outcomes, and survivorship of fixed-bearing and rotating-platform knees.