The evaluation of Knee Osteoarthritis (Knee OA) varies greatly between clinician groups (General Health Care providers and Specialists) and within members of these groups; no generally accepted approach exists. In most instances clinicians use what they have been taught to do and feel comfortable with using radiographic imaging, varying from reports alone, limited X-Ray views to MRIs.
As a result the diagnosis of OA is often delayed, its severity poorly recognized and the need for care less than optimal. Thus, referrals made for specialist care are frequently misguided, too early or late for surgery.
Our approach is towards a standardized evaluation based on Evidence Based studies with the use of reliable methods that are widely available.
Our clinical studies indicate that specific combinations of Disability and Radiographic Grade correlate well with recommendations for Knee Replacement Surgery, and below these levels conservative care is appropriate. When applied early, these approaches have great potential for improved symptoms and function with lessening requirements for surgical intervention. For more information on the studies click here.
In essence, we combine Disability Evaluation scores relating to knee use with the arthritis severity grading of Frontal Standing Radiographs and Skyline Patello-femoral joint views obtained using validated methods for grading. For more information on the grading scheme click here.