Abstract: Objective To analysis the experiences and results of total knee arthroplasty on the varus knee osteoarthritis. Methods From January 2006 to May 2009, 800 patients (939 knees) with varus osteoarthritis were treated by TKA in our hospital, male 246 patients (296 knees), female 554 cases (643 knees); aged 45 to 85. Based on modified Krackow classification: Ⅰ type: 480 patients (512 knees); Ⅱ type 225 patients (278 knees); Ⅲ type: 93 cases (147 knees); Ⅳ type 2 cases（2 knees）. The postoperative imaging and KSS score and complications were analyzed. Results The average unilateral knee surgery time was 60±7 min. 66 knee underwent bone defect filling. After 1-4 years follow-up no prosthesis loosening was found except 5 cases of deep infection. Imaging: preoperative varus angle 6°～ 30°, average 18.6°±1.2 °; weight-bearing X-ray post TKA revealed TFA 5°～7 °, average 5.8°±0.6°. KSS score: After 4 years, the clinical score and functional scores were 86.4±8.4、86.0±9.7, significant difference was found compared with presurgery (P<0.05); no significant difference was found in the three groups classified by varus angle (P＞0.05). 52 cases occurred different degrees of complications in 800 patients (6.5%). Conclusion TKA is an effective treatment method for the end stage of varus-type osteoarthritis of the knee, the function restored well in the short time follow up, and modified Krackow classification had some indicating value in the soft tissue release and bone reconstruction.

Key words: total knee arthroplasty, varus deformity, soft tissue balance