Artificial fusion of the knee joint with intramedullary nail and acrylic cementation following radical excision for tumor.

Extensive local excisions of skeletal tumors in the knee region create reconstruction problems with several alternative solutions. Custom-made endoprostheses now compete with joint homografts and fusion with autogenous bone-grafts. Artificial fusion utilizing an extra long Küntscher-nail and acrylic cement as a spacer is a fourth possibility with the advantages of immediate ambulation and weight-bearing, here presented in two cases. The expected disadvantages of loosening in long time survivors can be taken care of using one of the above-mentioned alternatives. This revision can be made after completion of adjunctive chemotherapy or later when called for by the occurrence of pain or instability.