G. M. Brouwer, A. W. Van Tol, A. P. Bergink, J. N. Belo, R. M. D. Bernsen, M. Reijman, H. A. P. Pols, S. M. A. Bierma-Zeinstra
The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between malalignment and the development of knee OA as well as progression of knee OA. A total of 1,501 participants in the Rotterdam study were randomly selected. Knee OA at baseline and at followup (mean followup 6.6 years) was scored according to the Kellgren/Lawrence (K/L) grading system. Alignment was measured by the femorotibial angle on radiographs at baseline. Multivariable logistic regression for repeated measurements was used to analyze the association of malalignment with the development and progression of OA. The authors conclude that an increasing degree of varus alignment is associated not only with progression of knee OA but also with development of knee OA. However, this association seems particularly applicable to overweight and obese persons.
Arthritis & Rheumatism, Volume 56, Issue 4 , Pages 1204 – 1211