Posterior Medial Capsular Release and External Rotation of the Tibia to Enhance Exposure During Total Knee Arthroplasty

Enhanced proximal tibial exposure allows precise resection of the proximal surface of the tibia and seating of the tibial component during total knee arthroplasty. The technique described in this article is performed on a fully open knee with a scalpel and does not require the use of an osteotome in a blind fashion. During procedures to correct a varus deformity, improved proximal exposure aids the surgeon during release of the deep medial collateral ligament and any flexion contracture, consequently allowing balance of the ligaments. This paper describes the simple and reproducible surgical technique of proximal tibial exposure.