Navigation in Total Knee Arthroplasty: Truth, Myths, and Controversies

Navigation provides some benefits in terms of radiological alignment. However, the clinical advantages are yet to be defined. Currently, there are many unanswered ques- tions concerning alignment in TKA, such as having a more individual approach based on the patients’ own anatomic variations including considerations about the presence of constitutional varus in patients. Navigation may have a role when TKA is performed for complex deformities, fractures, or in the presence of retained implants that prevent the use of conventional guides. Nevertheless, one should always keep in mind cost considerations. This has been true with any technological advancement we have had in the past and will be of concern in the future as well, especially with rising healthcare costs. When analyzing costs with naviga- tion, one must take in to account not only the overall costs of technology, but also the added costs of training, increased operating room times, and disposables when performing these procedures. Although we are advocates of change and are excited about this technology, the cost-benefit ratio for computer navigated TKA needs to be reconciled.