The Ilizarov method for failed knee arthrodesis following septic TKR

Knee arthrodesis is a well-recognized salvage procedure in patients with infected total knee arthroplasties. If a fusion is achieved, it offers the opportunity for a stable lower limb and eradication of infection, but at the expense of knee motion. However, knee arthrodesis in this setting may be difficult to achieve because of poor bone stock, persistent infection, soft tissue compromise, and often the poor general health of the patient. We report two cases of failed knee arthrodesis following periprosthetic infection where a fusion was successfully achieved with open debridement and a hybrid advanced Ilizarov fixator.