Abstract
We analyzed improvement in joint motion in 796 patients after condylar implant with preservation of the posterior cruciate ligaments.32 pts (4.1 %) had restricted motion after surgery (criteria Kim et al.). In 16 pts, stiffness had existed before surgery, 3 pts showed an excessive production of adhesions and heterotopic ossifications.
In 3 pts, the procedure resulted in an elevated level of the original joint line. 4 pts declined physical therapy and, in 6, the cause of stiffness was not found. 17 pts were satisfied and refused further surgical therapy. 1 patient underwent redress with no success. Repeated interventions in 15 pts led to average flexion improvement by 17°.
Revision TKA in 4 pts increased the flexion by 35° and reached total 83°.Conclusions: Restricted motion of the knee joint after TKA is difficult to treat. For severe stiffness, revision arthroplasty can be recommended.