[Megaprostheses of the knee joint].

The development of modern modular reconstructive endoprosthetic systems (megaprostheses) has enhanced or at least simplified the joint reconstruction in limb-sparing surgery. Orthopaedic oncology can demonstrate better treatment outcomes as a consequence of the close collaboration with other disciplines, such as internal and pediatric oncology or diagnostic and therapeutic radiology, or improved surgical procedures. The present article summarizes all current information about megaprostheses of the knee joint based on the literature as well as our own collective. Evaluation of the literature was not easy. There are great differences in the surgical and accompanying (adjuvant/neoadjuvant) procedures, among the patient collectives as well as the definition of treatment success and complications. Furthermore, a variety of different implants exist.