Knee arthrodesis using circular external fixator in the treatment of infected knee prosthesis: case report

Abstract

A patient (68 years old and male) underwent total knee replacement because of arthrosis, but he subsequently had infection due to a wound problem. Although he underwent early debridement, antibiotherapy, and soft-tissue operation, treatment failed because of improper soft-tissue coverage and progression of the infection. Therefore, the prosthesis was removed and a spacer with antibiotic was placed, in order to provide soft-tissue coverage and to eradicate infection. After 2 months, the patient underwent knee arthrodesis using a circular external fixator to achieve a stable lower extremity and to facilitate return to activities of daily living. We obtained knee fusion at 4 months without any requirement for secondary procedure of soft tissue and bone graft. There was no major complication. Arthrodesis with circular external fixator is a reliable and successive method that should be preferred for the treatment of infected knee replacement.