Total Knee Arthroplasty in Stiff and Ankylosed Knees

A retrospective study was done to evaluate the results of total knee arthroplasty performed on 84 knees in 53 patients with spontaneously ankylosed knees, having a preoperative arc of movement between 0° and 20°(average, 14°). The difficulties encountered in surgical exposure were managed by using various extensile exposure techniques. Follow-up ranged from 4 to 15 years (average, 9 years). The average postoperative arc of movement at final follow-up was 75°, with a significant average gain of 61° ( P < .01). The average extensor lag was 6°. Four knees had a residual flexion contractures of 5° or less. Total knee arthroplasty in ankylosed knees can achieve correction of deformity with a significant gain in range of motion and marked improvement in quality of life.