Stress-relief osteoporosis of the anterior femoral condyles in total knee replacement. A study of 185 patients.

A study has been conducted to examine anterior femoral condylar osteoporosis. A series of 65 ICLH knees with a more than four-year follow-up and a series of 120 Tricon P knees were examined radiologically. It was found that almost all cases showed anterior femoral condylar osteoporosis beginning at three months and stabilizing at two years. It was more severe in those with rheumatoid arthritis than in those with osteoarthritis. This type of osteoporosis can be prevented by using a layer of cement more than 7 mm thick or by using reinforcing screws in the condyles. Femoral component loosening leads to regression of the changes. This osteoporosis does not give rise to for revision arise in a case of this type, bone should be available for grafting the anterior femoral condyles.