Arthrodesis in failed knee replacement in eight rheumatoid patients

The series of eight rheumatoid patients is presented in whom arthrodesis of the knee had been performed after a failed knee replacement. Compression arthrodesis was used as a salvage procedure. The fusion rate was 75% (6/8 knees). In two patients arthrodesis was attempted three times before fusion occurred. The causes of failure are discussed. The compression technique of Charnley or Hoffman is recommended but with two frames. When the arthrodeses were properly fixed fusion seemed to occur in 2-3 months.