Total knee arthroplasty in stiff and ankylosed knees.

A retrospective study was done to evaluate the results of total knee arthroplasty performed on 84 knees in 53 patients with spontaneously ankylosed knees, having a preoperative arc of movement between 0 degrees and 20 degrees (average, 14 degrees). The difficulties encountered in surgical exposure were managed by using various extensile exposure techniques. Follow-up ranged from 4 to 15 years (average, 9 years). The average postoperative arc of movement at final follow-up was 75 degrees, with a significant average gain of 61 degrees (P < .01). The average extensor lag was 6 degrees. Four knees had a residual flexion contractures of 5 degrees or less. Total knee arthroplasty in ankylosed knees can achieve correction of deformity with a significant gain in range of motion and marked improvement in quality of life.