The first objective is to validate the Risk Assessment and Prediction Tool (RAPT) scale to assess rehabilitation therapy after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in our population. The second objective is to identify the factors that affect quality of life before and at 3 months post-TKA using the validated scale.
A prospective study of all patients with TKA admitted to hospital from January to July 2005 (cohort 1) and from January to July 2006 (cohort 2) was performed. The 芦translation-back-translation禄 procedure and validation of the RAPT scale in cohort 1 (49 patients) were carried out. Quality of life was assessed with the WOMAC and EQ-5D scales. A lineal regression and multiple logistic analysis was carried out in cohort 2 (106 patients) regarding the factors related to worse quality of life.
Validation of the RAPT scale obtained good correlation with the EQ-5D and WOMAC. The cohort 2 patients were classified into 4 groups according RAPT (medium-high and low) and place of residence (rural and urban). Medium-high RAPT level together with rural residence was associated with worse quality of life before and at 3 months post-TKA. Having a previous TKA and living with a partner were factors associated with a better previous quality of life. Older age and female gender were factors associated with worse quality of life at 3 months.
The RAPT scale is a valid, reliable, and easy-to-use application. The RAPT scale and area of residence makes it possible to stratify patients according to quality of life and need for rehabilitation.