Knee Reconstruction Using 3D-Printed Porous Tantalum Augment in the Treatment of Charcot Joint

Charcot joint disease is a rare neurogenic lesion of the joint characterized by progressive joint destruction with dislocation or subluxation. However, whether a joint replacement should be performed for severe joint damage is controversial.

This paper reports a case of severe Charcot joint disease with a large bone defect that was treated with arthroplasty assisted by a customized 3D-printed porous tantalum. The patient was admitted to the hospital with a 9-year history of bilateral knee pain that had aggravated in the past 2 months. Radiography showed osteogeny and sclerosis in both knees, free bone fragments, heterotopic ossification, new bone, and osteophyte formation, irregular margins, apparent narrowing of joint space, and severe joint damage (Anderson Orthopedic Research Institute classification type III). Based on the present illness, history, imaging, and laboratory examination, Charcot joint disease was confirmed. Conservative treatment has been reported in the literature. There are limited reports on the surgical treatment of severe Charcot joint disease. We followed up with the patient for a year after the operation, and the imaging and clinical evaluation results were good. Postoperative X-ray examinations showed good alignment of force lines, good joint space, and no evidence of loosening. The patient was mobile and did not need crutches.

Through accurate surgical evaluation and preparation of 3D-printed porous tantalum implants, severe AORI classification type III Charcot joint disease can effectively restore the range of motion of the knee joint, the lower limb alignment, and finally achieve good functional results of walking without crutches.