Knee Positioning After Total Knee Replacement

Many total knee replacements are performed each year, but there is no clear recommendation regarding knee positioning following this surgery. While the surgical knee is usually positioned in a straight position immediately after surgery, there may be benefits of positioning it in a partially bent position. A trial will compare the outcomes of two groups of patients: a) those whose knees are positioned in a partially bent position for a few hours after surgery and b) those who receive usual care where the knee is most likely positioned in a straight position. The investigators are looking to see whether knee motion and pain differ for patients in the two groups.

Inclusion Criteria: * Provision of signed and dated informed consent form * Stated willingness to comply with all study procedures and availability for the duration of the study * Males and females; Age \>18 years * Scheduled for elective primary unilateral total knee arthroplasty * The planned arthroplasty is secondary to physician-confirmed diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis * English- or Spanish-speaking Exclusion Criteria: * Patients with a history of chronic opioid use or chronic pain disorders * Patients with a history of bleeding disorders/coagulopathy * Patients receiving a total knee replacement secondary to trauma, avascular necrosis, tumor, or Charcot arthropathy * Patients scheduled to undergo multiple procedures simultaneously * Patients with cognitive impairment or inability to consent independently