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Knee arthrodesis with simultaneous lengthening using the Ilizarov method.

S Robert Rozbruch1, Svetlana Ilizarov, Arkady Blyakher

  • 1Institute for Limb Lengthening and Reconstruction, Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, USA. rozbruchsr@hss.edu

Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma
|March 11, 2005
PubMed
Summary

Knee arthrodesis with simultaneous lengthening using the Ilizarov method is a successful salvage procedure for nonreconstructable knees with bone loss and infection. This technique achieved bony union, optimized limb length, and improved patient outcomes.

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Area of Science:

  • Orthopaedic Surgery
  • Limb Reconstruction

Background:

  • Nonreconstructable knee joints with bone loss and infection pose significant challenges in orthopaedic salvage.
  • Traditional treatments may be limited in cases of severe joint destruction and contamination.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy of knee arthrodesis combined with simultaneous limb lengthening using the Ilizarov method.
  • To assess its success as a salvage procedure for complex knee conditions.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective review of 4 consecutive patients with nonreconstructable knee joints, bone loss, and infection.
  • Utilized the Ilizarov external fixation frame for simultaneous knee arthrodesis and limb lengthening.
  • Incorporated external bone stimulation at arthrodesis and lengthening sites.

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Main Results:

  • All 4 patients achieved bony union at both the arthrodesis and lengthening sites with good lower extremity alignment.
  • Achieved an average limb lengthening of 5.4 cm, with a mean follow-up of 35 months.
  • Demonstrated significant improvements in SF-36 scores and American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons lower limb module scores, with no recurrence of infection or need for assistive devices.

Conclusions:

  • Knee arthrodesis with simultaneous lengthening via the Ilizarov method is a successful salvage procedure.
  • This technique effectively optimizes limb length and may be advantageous in infected or previously infected joints due to external fixation.
  • The Ilizarov frame provides stability, allowing for weight-bearing during treatment.