OrthoFracs Logo

Knee Arthrodesis

Principles

  • Accurate fitting of concellous surfaces in correct position is of extreme importance
    • Use TKR cutting blocks
  • Charnley (1948) used compression clamps with pins placed 4cm from cut surfaces
    • Use of two pins at either end
    • better control of angular movement about osteotomy.
    • Charnley used near full extension in children as grow into flexion
  • Indications: Historically TB ,Other joint sepsis, Failed TKR, Traumatic Osteoarthritis

Position

  • 15-20 flexion

Surgical Technique

  • Anterior midline incision
  • Split quads & patella tendon
    • excise patella
  • Free patella tendon & capsule form tibial attachments
  • Flex Knee & perform complete synovectomy, excise menisci & cruciate ligaments
  • Excise tibial articular surface (use TKR jigs)
  • Excise femoral condyles with knee in appropriate position
  • Position stienman pins & apply compression clamp ® about 100lbs or 45kg compression
  • Close wounds in layers (NB clamp skin closed at time of pin insertion)
  • Immobilise in splint or POP
Bookmark and Share