[Total knee replacement in different age groups].

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and quality of life in long-term period (1 year) after total knee replacement in various age groups.

Material and methods: We studied 134 patients after unilateral primary total knee replacement. The KOOS and SF-36 questionnaires were used to assess the therapeutic effect (functionality and symptoms) and quality of life in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Results: At baseline, group I (young patients) had low KOOS pain scores (39.42±16.42), function scores (50.18±19.16) and QoL scores (18.2±15.9) compared to other age groups. A year after surgery, group I (<55 years) had significantly lower KOOS scores of pain, function and quality of life compared to group III (>65 years). Multiple regression analysis showed that age was a significant predictor of pain, but not a function after a year.

Conclusion: Total knee replacement gives a noticeable improvement in pain, functionality and quality of life in all age groups. However, there are significant age-related differences in preoperative assessment of pain, quality of life and mental health, as well as in final indicators of postoperative pain and quality of life. Indeed, young patients (<50 years) report more intense pain and worse quality of life. These data may be used in clinical practice to improve decision-making and patient expectations before total knee replacement.