[Traction-mobilization in 2-stage treatment of infected total knee prosthesis. Apropos of 12 cases].
BACKGROUND
A two stages reimplantation is advised by most authors in salvage of infected total knee arthroplasty. This treatment is more difficult, but seems more successful in controlling infection. It set the problem of the attitude between the two operative stages: an antibiotic cement spacer is usually used, but articular mobilization is not possible, except with an articulating spacer.


METHODS
Since 1989, we use traction-mobilisation between the two operative stages, with mobilization under traction up to 50 degrees, and on edge of bed up to 70-90 degrees, till the reimplantation. We used this method on 12 cases of chronic infection in total knee arthroplasty. The reimplantation was done 34 to 47 days later. The reimplantation was more easy and more comfortable in approach and exposition, and post operative mobilisation easier.


RESULTS
We did not have any recurrence of infection in this patients, but the follow up is too short for some of them. One prosthesis was removed for mechanical failure. The mean range of motion is 86 degrees at two months, 96 degrees at one year.


CONCLUSIONS
The antibiotic cement spacer presents the disadvantage of leaving material in a potentially infected environment. It does not allow mobilisation, except using an articulating spacer. Traction-mobilisation keep articular flexion, allows mobilization, and does not leave any material in articulation. But this method has the disadvantage of requiring an hospital care between the two stages: that is reasonable if the delay is short.


CONCLUSIONS
Traction mobilization seems to be an alternative to cement spacer. It makes the reimplantation easier, facilitates post operative recovery of mobility, and does not seem to increase recurrence of infection.
Lecuire
F
F
Service de Chirurgie orthopédique, Hôpital Renée Sabran, Gien, Hyeres, Hospices Civils de Lyon.
Rubini
J
J
Basso
M
M
Benareau
I
I
D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007720:Knee Prosthesis / Q000009:adverse effects; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009068:Movement; D016459:Prosthesis-Related Infections; D012086:Reoperation; D013997:Time Factors; D014143:Traction
Traction-mobilisation dans les changements en deux temps des prothèses totales de genou infectées. A propos de 12 cas.