Medium term results of total knee arthroplasty as a primary treatment for knee fractures

Successful treatment of knee comminuted periarticular fractures associated with osteoporosis and pre-existing arthritis is a challenging task.

This is a prospective study on 27 patients who had comminuted intra and periarticular knee fractures and pre-existing arthritis. Fractures were classified according to Muller's AO classification. Primary knee arthroplasty was performed ± internal fixation following 4 weeks of splinting. A stem was added to the tibial tray and Legacy Constrained Condylar Knee (LCCK) or Rotating Hinge (RH) prosthesis were used depending on the level of ligament damage and bone defects. The Knee Society Score (KSS) and radiological evaluation were performed at 3, 6 and 12 months then annually thereafter.

The average age of this group of patients was 63 years (range 59-74). Sixteen knees received primary femoral component and Posterior Stabilized insert, while 8 had LCCK. RH implants were chosen in 2 and distal femoral replacement was necessary in one knee. Twenty five patients were available for the final review at an average 6 years in whom the KSS was 80 (range 75-89) points. All patients achieved full knee extension and average knee flexion of 110° (range 90-135°). One knee needed re-admission for early Debridement Antibiotic Irrigation and Retention (DAIR) but none of the knees was revised or awaiting revision.

Knee arthroplasty achieves highly successful outcome when performed as a primary treatment for comminuted intra and periarticular knee fractures in elderly patients. Survival of implants and functional range of movement at midterm are excellent.