Uncemented total knee replacement — the favourable influence of low over high pressure drainage

The post-operative blood loss following an uncemented total knee replacement is substantial and can be affected by the vacuum pressure in the suction drains. One hundred and nine patients undergoing 122 uncemented total knee replacements were monitored to ascertain the influence of high or low vacuum drains on blood loss. Low volume drains produced a statistically significant reduction in blood loss compared to high vacuum drains [mean 1364 ml vs. mean 1695 ml (P<0.0062)]. Our findings revealed that high suction pressure drains are not necessary, and may be detrimental when used following uncemented total knee replacement.