To investigate the clinical effects of total knee arthroplasty in treatment of ankylosed knee caused by various reasons.
Four patients with 7 ankylosed knees, caused by ankylosing spondylitis in 1 case, septic arthritis with bony ankylosis in 1 case, and rheumatoid arthritis in 2 cases, underwent artificial knee replacement. Before the operation joint activity was 0 degrees , Knee Society score (KSS) was 42 (11 - 63), and the function score was 17. Follow-up was conducted for 5 - 27 months.
Follow-up showed that the average joint activity was raised to 83 degrees (60 degrees - 110 degrees ), KSS score to 83 (64 - 91) points, and function score to 77 points. No infectious case was found.
Total knee arthroplasty has a satisfactory effect in treatment of ankylosed knee. Computer assisted navigation system is helpful in femoro-tibial osteotomy and soft tissue balance. Individualized and directed rehabilitation is a pivotal factor.