Total knee arthroplasty in patients with poliomyelitis

Between 1991 and 2001, 17 primary total knee arthroplasties were performed in 15 patients with limbs affected by poliomyelitis. Eight patients had a constrained condylar knee design, 8 a posterior stabilized design, and 1 a hinged design. Mean follow-up was 41.5 months. The mean Knee Society knee score improved from 45 preoperatively to 87 postoperative. Knee stability was obtained in all patients, including 4 patients with less than antigravity quadriceps strength. Radiologic evaluation showed satisfactory alignment with no signs of loosening. Complications included 1 case of deep venous thrombosis and 2 knees that required a manipulation for stiffness. Pain relief, functional improvement, and knee stability can be achieved after constrained total knee arthroplasty in patients with poliomyelitis despite impaired quadriceps strength, and osseous and soft tissue abnormalities.