[Periprosthetic fractures of the knee : Revision arthroplasty]

Periprosthetic fractures of the knee joint are among the major complications following joint replacement surgery. The surgical treatment is challenging and therefore requires careful preoperative planning in order to select the best possible treatment strategy.

This review article was compiled based on a selective literature search of the PubMed database. Evidence-based treatment recommendations are provided using common classification systems and current research results.

Regardless of the location of a periprosthetic fracture in the knee, at first it has to be determined whether the knee joint endoprosthesis is stable or loose. If the implant is stable, the prosthesis can be retained with osteosynthetic treatment. In the case of a loose implant, prosthesis malfunctioning, malalignment or malpositioning, ligament instability, infection or deficient bone substance, the prosthesis has to be replaced. Knowledge of the exact classification of the fracture and the implant in place is therefore essential for determining the surgical strategy. This article focuses primarily on the different strategies for prosthesis replacement.

Periprosthetic fractures of the knee are complex injuries that require extensive expertise in trauma and arthroplasty in order to provide the best possible surgical treatment.