Common knee scoring systems

What do knee scores assess?

Knee surgeons commonly use 'scoring systems' to monitor their patients before and after knee surgery. This provides them with information for the individual patient record, but also allows comparison of results of any particular procedure with those of other surgeons around the world.

Common scoring systems assess -

Pain
Functional Activity
Activities of daily living
Sporting ability

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Common knee scoring systems

VAS Score - The VAS Score is the simplest of all and is a slider where you can mark your current level of pain. Despite its simplicity, it is widely employed.
Tegner-Lysholm Score - The Tegner-Lysholm Score (combined Tegner Score and Lysholm Score) is a widely used activity scoring system for patients with knee disorders.
KOOS Score - The KOOS score is commonly used to assess the quality of life when you have a knee problem.
WOMAC Score - The WOMAC Score is really geared towards people with osteoarthritis, and who are considering or have had a surgical intervention, such as a knee replacement.
IKDC Score - The IKDC Score is a simple subjective assessment of your functional level.

"The new Knee Society Knee Scoring System is both physician and patient derived....to rate the knee and patient’s functional abilities....before and after [Total Knee Arthroplasty]. The objective knee score, completed by the surgeon, includes a VAS score of pain walking on level ground and on stairs or inclines, as well as an assessment of alignment, ligament stability, and ROM, along with deductions for flexion contracture or extensor lag....[The] patient-specific survey....evaluates....activities of daily living, patient-specific sports and recreational activities, patient satisfaction, and patient expectations."

Giles R Scuderi et al

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