Revision surgery for stiff total knee arthroplasty.

Thirteen stiff total knee arthroplasties were studied in 12 patients who did not have a stiff knee prior to the index arthroplasty. The reasons for replacement were osteoarthritis in seven knees, post-traumatic arthritis in two, and inflammatory collagen disease in four. Four knees were revised for fixed flexion deformity and nine for poor arc of motion. The cause of stiffness in eight knees was malpositioned components. Following postoperative revision for stiffness, three knees received excellent ratings, two received good ratings, four received fair ratings, and four received poor ratings. Satisfaction was achieved in 11 of 12 patients because of pain relief. Improved motion was achieved in patients with primary osteoarthritis and patients with malposition of components. Poor motion occurred in those with patella baja and inflammatory collagen disease. A V-Y patella turndown helped prevent patella ligament complications.