A Meta-Analysis Comparing All-Polyethylene Tibial Component to Metal-Backed Tibial Component in Total Knee Arthroplasty: Assessing Survivorship and Functional Outcomes.

Background: This meta-analysis compares the clinical performance of all-polyethylene tibial (APT) to the metal-backed tibial (MBT) components.

Methods: We included comparative studies in primary total knee arthroplasty involving APT and MBT implant components. The primary outcomes were function, durability, and reports of adverse events.

Economics of All-Polyethylene Versus Metal-Backed Tibial Prosthesis Designs.

With the large number of total knee arthroplasties being performed and expectations that these numbers will be on the rise over the coming decades, efforts to provide cost-efficient care are of greater interest. The preferred design of knee arthroplasty implants has changed over time, with the original all-polyethylene tibial (APT) design being replaced by metal-backed tibial (MBT) components, as well as more recent considerations of newer APT designs. Modern APT components have been shown to have similar or superior outcomes than MBT components.