X-ray measurements of periarticular soft tissue predict readmission complications after total knee arthroplasty

Abstract Purpose Obesity is widely recognized as a risk factor for osteoarthritis. This study aimed to explore the association between BMI and periarticular soft tissue readmission complications in patients who previously underwent joint replacement through the study of clinical and imaging data. Methods This retrospective study included 625 patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty. Imaging data included several measurable soft tissue values and ratios on the anteroposterior side. The associations between BMI and imaging soft tissue measurements and complications leading to readmission during follow-up were explored. Results A total of 761 preoperative imaging measurements and postoperative follow-up data were analyzed, and a significant correlation (P < 0.05) emerged between postoperative readmission complications and the soft tissue thickness around the joint. A 1:4 paired test confirmed the independent predictive power (P < 0.1) of the selected soft tissue data for readmission complications. Conclusion BMI was insufficient for evaluating obesity-related complications after total knee arthroplasty. Preoperative imaging soft tissue data exhibited superior predictive capability for predicting readmission complications after arthroplasty.