An articulating spacer to treat and mobilize patients with infected total knee arthroplasty.
Academic Article
Overview
abstract
This retrospective study analyzed 25 consecutive patients (25 knees) with chronic deep TKA infection. During 1997-2004, patients underwent two-stage articulating spacer surgery. The original femoral component was removed, autoclaved and replaced and a new polyethylene was utilized. The second- stage procedure occurred at a mean of 11 weeks (range: 4 to 39 weeks) after spacer insertion. Mobilization was encouraged between stages. All patients were assessed at a minimum of two years (mean 54 months; range: 24-108 months) post re-implantation, and Modified Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) knee scores were calculated. Only one patient (4%) had re-infection. Average ROM before re-implantation was 5 degrees to 112 degrees , and 3 degrees to 115 degrees at latest follow-up. HSS scores averaged 91 (Range: 65-100) at latest follow-up. Two-stage re-implantation with an articulating spacer for infected TKA effectively treats infection and gives excellent knee motion between stages, and at mid- to long-term follow-up.