Soft-tissue procedures for the exposed knee arthroplasty. 18 cases followed for 7 (1-17) years

Reconstructive surgery was performed in 18 knee arthroplasties because of wound-healing problems or skin necrosis. The procedure, after debridement, included myocutaneous, muscle flap, and split-skin grafts. Revision was necessary in 6 cases. After 1-17 years, 6 patients had died, 2 had had a low femur amputation, and 5 had had an arthrodesis. Five patients had retained the prosthesis, although 3 of them had considerable pain and poor mobility; only 2 patients were tolerably painfree and had acceptable mobility. Patients with an exposed knee endoprosthesis should be referred to centers with special competence in plastic reconstructive surgery.