AFOR Experts' Knee Symposium

Dear colleagues,

Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) is one of the most challenging topics in Orthopaedic Surgery. With high success rates it suggests restoration of patient activity, life quality and dramatic improvement for an aging population.

However, similarly treated patients show differences in TKA performance and overall patient satisfaction still does not meet similar levels to hip arthroplasty.

Why is that? Do we understand anatomy and kinematics of the knee correctly? Could there be a high difference between individuals? To continuously improve we may have to reconsider current laws and rules established in knee surgery. There is already some evidence suggesting the importance of individual axes compared to the classic mechanical axis.

AFOR has decided to dedicate most of their resources during the next decade to one comprehensive topic: understanding and reviewing the classic laws of knee alignment: The AFOR Kinematic Decade 2013 – 2023: »Explore and supply evidence for or against classic laws of trunk and lower extremity anatomy, kinematics, joint physiology and treatment consequences«
To kick off the Kinematic Decade, AFOR invites all professionals in the broad field of knee surgery to Lucerne from May 29 – May 30 2013. Based on the highly successful Lucerne Knee Courses 2010 – 2012 we will discuss new and old thinking in this classic Orthopaedic field with a highly recognised international faculty. We will listen to lessons learned from the past and watch the projects designed for the future.

Lucerne in late spring is a wonderful place for a short get away and reflection of our current understanding of Total Knee Arthroplasty. We hope to see you in Lucerne!

Prof. Dr. H. Windhagen