Comparison of Tip- Versus Hub-Oscillating Saw Blade Control in a Total Knee Arthroplasty Model.

Background: Oscillating saws are commonly used for bone preparation in total knee arthroplasty but can cause injury to the posterior neurovascular bundle during tibial resection. Tip-oscillating saw blades are a recent innovation that could improve saw control due to decreased excursion; however, the tactile feedback to the surgeon is different.

Methods: To compare traditional hub and new tip-oscillating saw blades, 16 participants of varying levels of experience were video-recorded during composite tibial bone model resections to measure posterior saw blade plunge. Subjective perceptions of saw control and preference were also surveyed.

Results: Saw blade design and level of surgical experience did not produce a significant difference in posterior saw blade plunge (P > .05). Independent of saw blade design, subjects with no previous saw experience had significantly decreased posterior tibial plunge over subsequent resections. Tip-oscillating saw blades were perceived to be easier to use and control by less experienced participants (P = .0163).

Conclusion: Tip-oscillating saw blades do not alter the risk of posterior tibial saw plunge compared with traditional saw blades.