Objective To introduce the concept and clinical applications of rotational alignment of the femoral prosthesis in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) so as to avoide the postoperative complications caused by rotational alignment. Methods The clinical and experimental research literature about rotational alignment of the femoral prosthesis in TKA was extensively reviewed and analyzed. Results Femoral prosthesis malrotation can lead to flexion gap unbalanced and undesirable patellar track. Rotation alignment of the femoral prosthesis is defined with radiological and computer assisted technique at pre- and post-operation, which can make the rotation alignment of the femoral prosthesis and the function of the knee favorable. Conclusion In recent years, many surgical skills and new techniques of defining the rotational alignment are developed, and good clinical results are achieved.