F A Miralles-Muñoz1, A Lizaur-Utrilla2, C Manrique-Lipa1, F A López-Prats3. 1. Servicio de Cirugía Ortopédica, Hospital Universitario de Elda, Alicante, España. 2. Servicio de Cirugía Ortopédica, Hospital Universitario de Elda, Alicante, España. Electronic address: lizaur1@telefonica.net. 3. Departamento de Cirugía Ortopédica y Traumatología, Universidad Miguel Hernandez, Elche, Alicante, España.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the outcome of knee fixation without bone fusion using an intramedullary modular nail and interposed cement. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective study of 29 infected total knee arthroplasties with prospective data collection and a mean follow-up of 4.2 years (3-5). RESULTS: Complications included 2 recurrent infections, 1 peri-implant fracture, and 1 cortical erosion due to the tip of the femoral component. All of these were revised with successful results. The mean limb length discrepancy was 0.8 cm, with 24<1cm. Twenty-five patients reported no pain. The mean WOMAC-pain was 86.9, WOMAC-function 56.4, SF12-physical 45.1, and SF12-mental 53.7. Four patients needed a walking frame, and only two were dependent for daily activities. CONCLUSIONS: The Endo-Model Link nail is an effective method for knee fixation that restores the anatomical alignment of the limb with adequate leg length.
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the outcome of knee fixation without bone fusion using an intramedullary modular nail and interposed cement. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective study of 29 infected total knee arthroplasties with prospective data collection and a mean follow-up of 4.2 years (3-5). RESULTS: Complications included 2 recurrent infections, 1 peri-implant fracture, and 1 cortical erosion due to the tip of the femoral component. All of these were revised with successful results. The mean limb length discrepancy was 0.8 cm, with 24<1cm. Twenty-five patients reported no pain. The mean WOMAC-pain was 86.9, WOMAC-function 56.4, SF12-physical 45.1, and SF12-mental 53.7. Four patients needed a walking frame, and only two were dependent for daily activities. CONCLUSIONS: The Endo-Model Link nail is an effective method for knee fixation that restores the anatomical alignment of the limb with adequate leg length.