Knee arthrodesis after infected total knee arthroplasty using the Ilizarov method

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Infectious Disease Management
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Infected total knee arthroplasty presents a significant challenge in orthopedic surgery.
• Knee arthrodesis is a recognized salvage procedure for complex cases.
• Limited literature exists on the Ilizarov method for treating infected total knee arthroplasty.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of the Ilizarov method for infected total knee arthroplasty.
• To present the authors' experience with this technique in a series of patients.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of six patients treated between 1992 and 1998.
• Application of the Ilizarov external fixation technique for knee arthrodesis.
• Follow-up assessment of treatment outcomes, including time to weight-bearing and stability.

Main Results:

• All five patients who completed treatment achieved stable knee arthrodesis.
• Mean external fixation duration was 6.8 months.
• Patients experienced satisfactory outcomes without further surgical intervention or bracing.

Conclusions:

• The Ilizarov method is a viable and recommended treatment for infected total knee arthroplasty.
• This technique is particularly beneficial for patients with bone loss, limb shortening, axial deformity, active infection, or failed previous arthrodesis.