To analyze the results and complications arising from 1,000 cases of primary total knee arthroplasty (TKRA), as performed by one surgeon.

From February, 1992 to June, 2000, 1,000 cases of primary TKRA were performed by a single surgeon. Among the 1,000 cases, 573 cases followed up for more than one year (average 2.9 years) were evaluated try allocating special surgery (HSS) scores and by determining the range of motion (ROM), and presence of complications retrospectively.

There were 872 cases of primary osteoarthritis, 70 cases of rheumatoid arthritis, 32 cases of osteonecrosis, and 26 cases of miscellaneous diseases. The HSS score increased from 57.8 preoperatively to 90.4 postoperatively, ROM increased from 111degrees to 113degrees and flexion contracture decreased from 9degrees to 2degrees, but no statistical differences in results were observed between diseases. Common causes of complications were superficial infection (3.6%), deep infection (2.4%) and deep vein thrombosis (1.8%). Two patients died, one due to myocardial infarct and the other due to an unknown etiology. Revision arthroplasties were performed in 19 cases.

After primary TKRA, ROM and functional score improved satisfactorily. No statistical differences were apparent between diseases. Infection was the most common complication.