Background and Purpose: More than 3 million total knee arthroplasties (TKA) are projected annually by the year 2030 [1]. Given the prevalence of elective TKA, physical therapists are working towards the most effective treatment interventions. The goal of this case report was to describe interventions for two geriatric patients with different levels of medical complexity.

Case Description: Two geriatric patients with different levels of medical complexity were seen following right TKA. Both patients presented with deficits in body structure and function, activity limitations, and participation restrictions.

Outcomes: Both patients received the same interventions to address deficits in range of motion (ROM), balance, gait, and strength. Despite different levels of medical complexity, the outcomes were similar. Outcome measures used included the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Range of Motion (ROM), Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, Five Time Sit to Stand Test (FTSTST), and Six-Minute Walk Test (6 MWT). At discharge, both patients reported no pain. Patient 1 right knee ROM was 0-125 degrees flexion, her FTSTST was completed in 10 seconds, she completed 487.68 meters during a 6 MWT, and a TUG score of 8 seconds. Patient 2 right knee ROM was 0-128 degrees flexion, her FTSTST was completed in 4.38 seconds, she completed 530.50 meters during a 6 MWT, and a TUG test in 6 seconds.

Discussion: When comparing the patients with varying medical complexities both patients demonstrated improvements in all of the outcome measures regardless of medical complexity following TKA.

Keywords: Total knee arthroplasty; Medical complexity; Outcome measures