Knee Arthrodesis after Failed Total Knee Arthroplasty

Abstract

Knee arthrodesis after failure of a total knee arthroplasty (TKA) because of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) may provide superior functional outcome and ambulatory status compared with above-the-knee amputation. The use of an intramedullary nail (IMN) for knee arthrodesis following removal of TKA components because of a PJI may result in higher fusion rates compared with external fixation devices. The emerging role of the antibiotic cement-coated interlocking IMN may expand the indications to achieve knee fusion in a single-stage intervention. Massive bone defects after failure of an infected TKA can be managed with various surgical strategies in a single-stage intervention to preserve leg length and function.