Comparing two knee replacement techniques for better outcomes

Kinematic and Mechanical Alignment Randomized Trial (KMART): A Technology-Focused Randomized Controlled Trial

Phase 4 Interventional McMaster University · NCT06787417

This study is testing two different knee replacement techniques to see which one helps people with knee osteoarthritis feel better and move more easily after surgery.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment260 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorMcMaster University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Hamilton, Ontario)
Trial IDNCT06787417 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effectiveness of two different surgical techniques for total knee arthroplasty: mechanical alignment and restricted kinematic alignment. Mechanical alignment aims for a straight knee to enhance implant longevity, while restricted kinematic alignment customizes the knee replacement to fit each patient's unique anatomy. The study will assess patient satisfaction, functional outcomes, and knee motion to determine which approach yields better results. By utilizing robotic-assisted surgery, the trial aims to provide more personalized treatment options for patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with knee osteoarthritis requiring total knee arthroplasty.

Not a fit: Patients who have cognitive disabilities, language barriers, or those undergoing revision knee surgery may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved patient satisfaction and functional outcomes after knee replacement surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown comparable outcomes between mechanical and kinematic alignment, but this trial aims to clarify the benefits of personalized approaches.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adult aged 18 years or older
* Knee osteoarthritis requiring total knee arthroplasty
* Provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Inability to provide informed consent (e.g. cognitive disability, language barrier)
* Revision knee surgery
* Simultaneous bilateral knee surgery
* Recent lower extremity surgery or trauma interfering with gait assessment
* A CT scan cannot be obtained prior to surgery
* Inability or unwillingness to comply with the study protocol

Where this trial is running

Hamilton, Ontario

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Total Knee ArthroplastyOsteoarthritisKinematic AlignmentMechanical Alignment
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.