Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation: New Perspectives in Postoperative Care Following Total Knee Arthroplasty Using an External Motion Sensor and a Smartphone Application for Remote Monitoring

Abstract

Background: The number of total knee replacements performed annually is steadily increasing. Parallel options for postoperative care are decreasing, which reduces patient satisfaction. External devices to support physical rehabilitation and health monitoring will improve patient satisfaction and postoperative care. Methods: In a prospective, international multicenter study, patients were asked to use an external motion sensor and a smartphone application during the postoperative course of primary total knee arthroplasty. The collected data were transferred to a data platform, allowing for the real-time evaluation of patient data. Results: In three participating centers, 98 patients were included. The general acceptance of using the sensor and app was high, with an overall compliance in study participation rate of up to 76%. The early results showed a significant improvement in the overall quality of life (p < 0.001) and significant reductions in pain (p < 0.01) and depression (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The early results of this clinical and multicenter study emphasize that there is a high interest in and acceptance of digital solutions in patients’ treatment pathways. Motion sensor and smartphone applications support patients in early rehabilitation.