Location
Suwanee, GA
Start Date
17-4-2026 12:00 PM
End Date
17-4-2026 1:00 PM
Description
Introduction
Optimizing outcomes in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a priority in orthopaedics. Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA) help control blood sugar in diabetics and promote weight loss in obese patients. Studies show they contribute to decreased complications and improved outcomes after orthopedic surgery, but there are inconsistencies regarding its safety and efficacy. Some studies demonstrate reduced infection, readmission, and wound complications in diabetic patients, while others raise concerns about delayed healing, malnutrition, and increased complication rates among non-diabetics. This review evaluates the association between perioperative GLP-1 RA use and postoperative outcomes in TKA.
Methods
A systematic review was conducted using PRISMA 2020 guidelines. PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched (2015–2025). Eligible studies included adults undergoing primary TKA with reported perioperative GLP-1 RA use and postoperative outcomes.
Results
Ten studies met inclusion criteria. In large arthroplasty datasets, perioperative GLP-1 RA use was associated with lower 90-day complications, fewer readmissions, and reduced prosthetic joint infection, particularly in morbidly obese and diabetic TKA patients. Similar results were represented in total hip arthroplasty. Overall, GLP-1 RA therapy appears safe and may be beneficial for TKA. However, reported outcomes varied across different orthopaedic procedures, indicating the importance of procedure-specific assessment.
Conclusions
This systematic review shows GLP-1 RA represents a promising adjunct in optimizing obese patients prior to TKA. While encouraging, the current evidence is limited. Future research should focus on large prospective studies which stratify outcomes by surgical procedure, baseline metabolic status, and duration of GLP-1 therapy. Investigation into potential risks, including delayed wound healing or nutritional deficiencies, is necessary to ensure it is safe and effective. The use of GLP-1 RA appears to offer a meaningful opportunity to improve surgical outcomes in high-risk TKA patients.
Embargo Period
6-2-2026
Included in
GLP-1 Agonists and Total Knee Arthroplasty Outcomes: A Systematic Review
Suwanee, GA
Introduction
Optimizing outcomes in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a priority in orthopaedics. Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA) help control blood sugar in diabetics and promote weight loss in obese patients. Studies show they contribute to decreased complications and improved outcomes after orthopedic surgery, but there are inconsistencies regarding its safety and efficacy. Some studies demonstrate reduced infection, readmission, and wound complications in diabetic patients, while others raise concerns about delayed healing, malnutrition, and increased complication rates among non-diabetics. This review evaluates the association between perioperative GLP-1 RA use and postoperative outcomes in TKA.
Methods
A systematic review was conducted using PRISMA 2020 guidelines. PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched (2015–2025). Eligible studies included adults undergoing primary TKA with reported perioperative GLP-1 RA use and postoperative outcomes.
Results
Ten studies met inclusion criteria. In large arthroplasty datasets, perioperative GLP-1 RA use was associated with lower 90-day complications, fewer readmissions, and reduced prosthetic joint infection, particularly in morbidly obese and diabetic TKA patients. Similar results were represented in total hip arthroplasty. Overall, GLP-1 RA therapy appears safe and may be beneficial for TKA. However, reported outcomes varied across different orthopaedic procedures, indicating the importance of procedure-specific assessment.
Conclusions
This systematic review shows GLP-1 RA represents a promising adjunct in optimizing obese patients prior to TKA. While encouraging, the current evidence is limited. Future research should focus on large prospective studies which stratify outcomes by surgical procedure, baseline metabolic status, and duration of GLP-1 therapy. Investigation into potential risks, including delayed wound healing or nutritional deficiencies, is necessary to ensure it is safe and effective. The use of GLP-1 RA appears to offer a meaningful opportunity to improve surgical outcomes in high-risk TKA patients.
Comments
Presented by Lucy Fisher.