title: Functional outcome of knee arthrodesis with a monorail external fixator.
abstract: Several methods for obtaining knee arthrodesis have been described in the literature and world; over, the commonest cause for arthrodesis is a failed arthroplasty. Less commonly, as in this series, post-infective or traumatic causes may also require a knee fusion wherein arthroplasty may not be indicated. We present salient advantages along with the radiological and functional outcome of twenty four patients treated with a single monorail external fixator. All patients went on develop fusion at an average of 5.4 months with an average limb length discrepancy of 3 cm (1.5-6 cm). Improvements in functional outcome as assessed by the lower extremity functional score (LEFS), and the SF-36 was significant (p = 0.000). Knee arthrodesis with a single monorail external fixator is a reasonable single-staged salvage option in patients wherein arthroplasty may not be the ideal choice. The outcome, though far from ideal, is definitely positive and predictable.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopedics Unit-1, CMC, Vellore, India.
authors.forename: Alfred Cyril
authors.initials: AC
authors.lastname: Roy
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopedics Unit-1, CMC, Vellore, India. sandeepalbertor@gmail.com.
authors.forename: Sandeep
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Albert
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopedics Unit-1, CMC, Vellore, India.
authors.forename: Mohamad
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Gouse
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopedics Unit-1, CMC, Vellore, India.
authors.forename: Dan Barnabas
authors.initials: DB
authors.lastname: Inja
keywords: External fixator; Knee arthrodesis; Post-septic sequelae; Post-traumatic sequelae; Tuberculous arthritis