Total knee arthroplasty in hemophilia.

Overview

Twenty-four total knee arthroplasties were performed in fourteen disabled patients with hemophilia. The average age of the patients at operation was thirty-five years. Twenty-one of the implants that were used were total condylar prostheses. Using The Hospital for Special Surgery knee-rating system after two to nine years of follow-up, the result in fifteen knees was rated as excellent; in six, as good; and in one, as fair. Two patients had a poor result that was attributable to late infection. Pain and function were markedly improved, and the average gain in range of motion was 23 degrees. Postoperative complications, in addition to the infections, included one subcutaneous hematoma, one hemolytic anemia, and one instance of inhibition to Factor VIII. The technical problems in treatment were formidable. Total knee arthroplasty in a hemophiliac can be successful, but it should be performed only with strict hematological supervision. The surgeon should be prepared to treat many potential postoperative complications.