[Rotationplasty as an alternative to amputation]

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Surgical Oncology
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Malignant tumors of the knee often necessitate limb amputation.
• Conservative treatments may not always be viable for these conditions.
• Rotationplasty presents a complex surgical alternative to traditional amputation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate rotationplasty as a limb-sparing surgical option for knee malignancies.
• To compare functional outcomes and quality of life with above-knee amputation.
• To assess the benefits and drawbacks of rotationplasty in oncological resection.

Main Methods:

• Resection of the distal femur with tumor involvement.
• Rotation of the lower leg by 180 degrees.
• Reconstruction utilizing the ankle joint to replace the knee joint.

Main Results:

• Achieved satisfactory oncological resection.
• Demonstrated functional outcomes superior to above-knee amputation.
• Reported improved quality of life, absence of phantom pain, and enhanced proprioception.
• Observed coordinated gait and increased efficiency in daily activities and sports.

Conclusions:

• Rotationplasty is a viable limb-sparing procedure for malignant knee tumors when amputation is indicated.
• The technique offers significant functional advantages and improved quality of life compared to amputation.
• Psychological acceptance and aesthetic considerations remain important factors for patient consideration.