Gender differences in distal femoral morphology and the role of gender specific implants in total knee replacement: A prospective clinical study

Gender differences in distal femoral morphology may affect femoral component fit using a standard range of prostheses. The clinical relevance of this is controversial.

Standardised measurements were taken from the distal femora of 50 males and 50 females during total knee replacement (TKR). Corresponding measurements were taken from the respective gender specific and standard femoral components. No demographic differences were noted.

Significant differences in both frequency and magnitude existed in the medial-lateral femoral component overhang between the sexes. In females, standard implants overhung at the anterior flange width (AFW) by >2 mm in 24/50 (48%) and by >3 mm in 17/50 (34%) (p<0.001). Also at the anterior medial-lateral width (MLA) 29/50 (58%) overhung by >2 mm and 24/50 (48%) by >3 mm (p<0.001). In males, standard implants overhung by >2 mm in 1/50 (2%). In females, gender specific implants overhung by >2 mm in 3/50 (6%). Females had a mean aspect ratio of 1.02 (0.82 to 1.35) and men 0.98 (0.79 to 1.19).

Femoral component overhang can occur in females undergoing TKR and a gender specific implant would reduce the potential for medial-lateral overhang. Long term studies are awaited to quantify the clinical implications of overhang.