Deformity correction with total knee arthroplasty for severe knee osteoarthritis accompanying extra-articular femoral deformity: the results are promising

This study aimed to evaluate patients with severe degenerative osteoarthritis of the knee and extra-articular femoral deformities treated with total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and acute deformity correction.

Ten patients with severe degenerative osteoarthritis of the knee and extra-articular femoral deformities were included, and the median age was 63 years (range 38–67). The etiology was post-traumatic malunion in four patients, rickets sequelae in four patients, and surgical sequelae due to multiple epiphyseal dysplasia in two patients. The severity of degenerative osteoarthritis and deformity analyses were assessed according to the Kellgren–Lawrence and Paley criteria, respectively. The median number of previous operations the patients had undergone was two (range 0–3), and the median Oxford Knee Society score was 9 (range 5–13) before treatment. All patients were treated with primary TKA and deformity correction in the same surgery. The TKA was completed first, followed by an osteotomy at the apex of the deformity. Finally, a retrograde intramedullary nail was inserted.

The median follow-up period was 44 (31–60) months. A stable and functional knee joint, a physiological mechanical axis, and solid osseous union were achieved in all patients. Late prosthetic failure was seen in one patient due to deep infection. The median Oxford Knee Society score was 42 (range 37–47) at the final follow-up.

Combining several procedures in single setting for the treatment of severe knee osteoarthritis accompanied by extra-articular deformity may eliminate the need for multiple surgeries. Furthermore, a proper physiological mechanical axis can be obtained without causing substantial bone loss.

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