Tibial tubercle osteotomy in revision total knee arthroplasty

In revision total knee arthroplasty, osteotomy of the tibial tubercle provided satisfactory exposure to extract the broken tibial metal tray with rigidly fixed stem easily and safely. Three patients (three knees) underwent this osteotomy and were followed for a minimum of 2 years (range 2 years and 2 months to 2 years and 8 months). All of the osteotomies had healed within 6 months post-operatively. There were no complications related to the surgical technique.     

Tibial tubercle osteotomy in septic revision total knee arthroplasty

Purpose

The incidence of revision knee arthroplasty for infection is increasing and the required surgical approach for the revision is a challenge for surgeons. Extensile approaches are frequently used when it is impossible to evert the extensor mechanism. The aim of this paper is to report our experience with tibial tubercle osteotomy (TTO) and the functional results in patients who underwent a two-stage revision due to prosthesis infection.

Methods

Twenty-six patients underwent a TTO as a surgical approach in the second stage of revision for infection. The patients were clinically assessed by means of functional scales (the Knee Society Score and WOMAC) and X-rays.

Results

The TTO healed without complications in 22 patients (84.6 %) and the average length of follow-up was 3.4 years. Non-union was observed in two patients. One patient presented an extension lag of 5°. A total of 23 patients (88.4 %) were free from infection. Twenty-five patients (96.1 %) had better scores on the Knee Society Score and WOMAC after the procedure.

Conclusions

In patients undergoing the second stage of revision total knee arthroplasty for infection, the TTO approach provides a large operating field. This enables surgeons to withdraw spacers and position new implants without damaging the extensor mechanism of the knee or altering the postoperative rehabilitation process. The complications that have been reported as a result of this procedure could be reduced by performing a meticulous surgical technique.

Level of evidence

Retrospective case series, Level IV.     

Tibial tubercle osteotomy with absorbable suture fixation in revision total knee arthroplasty: a report of 23 cases

Objective

Tibial tubercle osteotomy (TTO) is a well-known technique for improving exposure in difficult total knee arthroplasty (TKA). We have performed 23 revision TKAs with TTO. The tibial tubercle was fixated with only absorbable sutures afterwards. The aim of this study is to report on the clinical results and complications of this procedure.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 23 patients (mean age 69.6 years, range 43–84 years) who underwent TTO with only absorbable suture fixation. Clinic charts were reviewed to identify any complications that occurred. Obvious proximal migration and union of the tibial tubercle was evaluated on the postoperative radiographs. Knee Society scores and SF-36 were assigned at latest follow-up.

Results

The mean follow-up was 16.1 months (1–43). Two patients died of causes unrelated to surgery. In one case a fracture of the TTO occurred. No obvious migration of the osteotomy was detected. In two cases there was partial consolidation of the osteotomy, but without clinical consequences of pain or extension lag. In five patients a tibial plateau fracture occurred intraoperative which allowed partial weight bearing during 6 weeks. These fractures were not related to the surgical technique of the TTO. In 15 out of 23 patients a Knee Society Score could be assigned. The mean total knee score (maximum 200 points) after revision was 99.5 (17–166) (clinical KSS 52.1, functional KSS 47.3) at latest follow-up. SF-36 scores could be assigned to 16 patients; the mean SF-36 (maximum 100) was 88 (range 74–98).

Conclusion

Tibial tubercle osteotomy with only absorbable suture fixation is a reliable and simple method of fixation and provides adequate stability. It is a straightforward surgical technique which is less time-consuming and expensive compared with screw and cerclage wire fixation and no hardware removal will be necessary. Therefore, this method is a beneficial technique for the enhancement of surgical exposure in difficult revision TKA.     

Tibial tubercle osteotomy in total knee arthroplasty surgery

Tibial tubercle osteotomy (TTO) is a recognized technique for improving exposure when performing total knee arthroplasty surgery. Forty-two patients were reviewed at a mean of 8 years after TTO. Preoperatively, mean extension was 8 degrees +/- 14 degrees , mean flexion 74 degrees +/- 30 degrees , and Knee Society score 73 +/- 37. At latest follow-up, mean extension was 4 degrees +/- 15 degrees , mean flexion 91 degrees +/- 22 degrees , and Knee Society score 124 +/- 42.6 (P < or = .0001). Seventy-three percent of patients had an excellent/good score at latest follow-up. Twenty-five percent of patients experienced no extensor lag, and 66% of extensor lags had resolved within 6 months. Mean time for osteotomy union was 14 weeks. In this series, TTO performed to enhance surgical exposure did not adversely affect the outcome after total knee arthroplasty but resulted in serious complications in 5% of patients.     

Tibial tubercle osteotomy for exposure of the difficult total knee arthroplasty

Tibial tubercle osteotomy provides a safe and reliable means of extensile exposure of the knee. A technique was developed using a long osteoperiosteal segment including the tibial tubercle and upper tibial crest leaving lateral muscular attachments intact to this bone fragment. The bone fragment was reattached to its bed with two cobalt-chromium wires passed through the fragment and through the medial tibial cortex. The procedure was used in 71 knees to expose the joint for total knee arthroplasty, and the follow-up period was one to five years. All healed uneventfully, and no significant complications occurred. Mean postoperative flexion was 97 degrees. No extension lag occurred, and mean flexion contracture was 2.5 degrees. Excellent exposure can be achieved by means of a viable bone flap below the knee. Early rehabilitation and weight bearing can be done with low potential for complications.     

The results of tibial tubercle osteotomy for revision total knee arthroplasty

Tibial tubercle osteotomy was used in the surgical exposure of 67 knees in 64 patients undergoing revision total knee arthroplasty. The clinical and radiographic results were reviewed retrospectively. The mean follow-up time was 30 months (range, 5-60 months). Knee Society scores (KSS) confirmed good or excellent results in 87% of the knees, and the mean KSS was 86. The procedure was particularly effective in 2-stage exchanges for infected total knee arthroplasty, in which infection was eradicated in 9 of 10 cases, with a mean KSS of 82. In this series, no patellofemoral complications, no component malalignments, and no avulsions of the patellar tendon occurred. Serious complications directly related to the tibial tubercle osteotomy occurred in 5 patients (7%).     

Tibial osteotomy coincident with long stem total knee arthroplasty: a surgical technique

Tibial deformity secondary to previous fracture or osteotomy requires corrective osteotomy in some patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This can be performed in either two stages or coincident with the arthroplasty. Literature on coincident tibial osteotomy and TKA has been published previously, but details of the complicated surgical technique are lacking for surgeons performing this procedure for the first time. This article details the preoperative planning involved and the intraoperative technique used in tibial osteotomy coincident with TKA.     

The outcome of sequential repeated tibial tubercle osteotomy performed in 2-stage revision arthroplasty for infected total knee arthroplasty

Thirteen patients with infected total knee arthroplasty treated by 2-stage revision requiring tibial tubercle osteotomy in both stages for extensile exposure were retrospectively analyzed. The preoperative mean range of knee motion improved from 60° (range, 30°-90°) to 94° (range, 70°-120°) at latest follow-up. The Knee Society knee scores and function scores were 39 and 18 preoperatively and 78 and 67 at latest follow-up, respectively. Although proximal migration occurred in 3 cases and a partial proximal avulsion fracture of the osteotomy segment occurred in 1 case after the second-stage reimplantation, radiographic bony union was observed in all cases. Sequential repeated tibial tubercle osteotomy can be a useful extensile surgical approach in staged revision for infected total knee arthroplasty with satisfactory clinical and radiographic outcomes.     

Extended tibial tubercle osteotomy in total knee arthroplasty

Thirty tibial tubercle osteotomies were performed to obtain exposure and facilitate patellar tracking in 29 patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty. The thickness and width of the bone fragment were gradually tapered from proximal to distal. Fixation was obtained with three or four titanium screws. Average follow-up period was 18 months. Twenty-nine of the osteotomies healed primarily. In one patient, postoperative displacement of the tibial tubercle developed requiring additional screw and suture fixation. Extended tibial tubercle osteotomy is a useful technique during difficult total knee arthroplasty. Poor tibial bone stock is a relative contraindication. The authors recommend that a long tapered bone fragment that is 1.5 to 2 cm thick at the level of the tibial tubercle be elevated and fixation achieved with screws.     

胫骨结节截骨在复杂膝关节置换显露中的应用

[目的]探讨胫骨结节截骨在显露困难的复杂膝关节置换中应用的可行性及效果.[方法]作者在2005年4月-2007年4月期间,在16例复杂膝关节置换手术的显露过程中应用了胫骨结节截骨的方法,平均随访时间为20个月(6-26个月).通过KSS评分(knee society scores)和X线检查对结果进行评价和分析.[结果]KSS评分从术前的平均46分提高到术后的平均91分.膝关节活动度从术前的平均53°增加到术后的平均105°.术后3个月复查X线所有患者截骨块均达到完全愈合,只有1例截骨块在上移约0.7 cm的位置愈合,其余均在原位愈合.无伸直延迟.[结论]胫骨结节截骨是一种安全可靠并且效果非常好的增加膝关节显露的方法.     

The extended humeral osteotomy for revision shoulder arthroplasty: Results and technique

BackgroundExtraction of a well-fixed humeral stem during revision shoulder arthroplasty is challenging and can result in significant proximal humeral destruction. We introduce a refinement to osteotomy techniques, the extended humeral osteotomy (EHO), that facilitates complete extraction of the humeral component and cement mantle.Materials and methodsTwenty-five patients with failed shoulder arthroplasty who underwent an EHO for removal of a well-fixed humeral component between December 2008 and May 2018 were retrospectively identified. Twenty patients were available for final follow-up. Records and radiographs were reviewed for intraoperative and postoperative complications, preoperative and postoperative function, and patient reported outcome measures.ResultsAverage follow-up was 65.6 months. All osteotomies healed. Of patients who were converted to reverse shoulder arthroplasty, 18/19 remained stable at final follow-up. From preop to final follow-up, mean forward elevation improved from 77° to 109° (p-value 0.013), ASES scores improved from 33.9 to 59.5 (p-value 0.003), and VAS scores improved from 6 to 3.1 (p-value 0.002). Complications related to the osteotomy occurred in two patients (10%). In one patient, the osteotomy was performed using improper instrumentation and created an intraoperative periprosthetic fracture which required immediate plate fixation. In one patient, irritation from a cable required cable removal at 1 year postop. There were no iatrogenic nerve injuries or known recurrent infections.ConclusionThe extended humeral osteotomy is a safe and reproducible technique for complete extraction of well-fixed humeral prostheses and associated cement mantles in revision shoulder arthroplasty cases.Level of evidenceLevel IV; Case Series; Treatment Study     

Extended proximal femoral osteotomy: A new technique for femoral revision arthroplasty

An osteotomy technique for removal of distally fixed cemented and cementless femoral components is described. The anterolateral proximal femur is cut for one third of its circumference, extended distally, and levered open on an anterolateral hinge of periosteum and muscle. This creates an intact muscle—osseous sleeve composed of the gluteus medius, greater trochanter, anterolateral femoral diaphysis, and vastus lateralis, and exposes the fixation surface as well as distal cement. This technique combines the advantages of an extremely wide exposure of component fixation surfaces and preservation of soft tissue attachments to cut bone. In addition, it allows alteration of the proximal femur to facilitate accurate and safe distal cement removal and canal machining under direct vision. The possibility of placing the component in varus is eliminated. The proximal femur is allowed to conform more accurately to the revision prosthesis, a weakened or damaged trochanter is protected from iatrogenic injury, and soft tissue tension can be adjusted. The osteotomy is then repaired with cerclage wires or cables. The first 20 patients treated with this technique are reviewed. Excellent cement and component removal and optimal revision component implantation were obtained with no change in postoperative regimen and reliable healing.     

Exposure in difficult total knee arthroplasty using coronal tibial tubercle osteotomy

Exposure in a total knee arthroplasty can be challenging regardless of whether it is a difficult primary or a revision. Various techniques both proximal and distal to the patella have been described and implemented to gain exposure and improve knee flexion. When patella eversion is not possible due to previous surgery or severe preoperative knee flexion contracture, a coronal tibial tubercle osteotomy may be utilized. We present successful results utilizing the coronal tibial tubercle osteotomy procedure. The technique involved in this series is based on that described by Whiteside. It involves the development of a long lateral musculoperiosteal flap incorporating the tibial tubercle and anterior tibia, and leaving the proximal tibial cortex intact. This is extended along the tibia distally for 10 cm. It finishes by gradually osteotomising the anterior surface of the tibial crest. The tubercle is reattached with wires at the end of the procedure. This technique minimizes complications that have been associated with the tibial tubercle osteotomy. The 10 knees in 9 patients, who had total knee arthroplasty with a coronal tibial tubercle osteotomy, were reviewed pre and postoperatively. All knees were assessed using the Hospital for Special Surgery knee score (HSS). The scores averaged 43.6 preoperatively (range, 29 57) and 79.2 postoperatively (range, 67 90), and the mean range of motion was 59.5 degrees preoperatively and 78.0 degrees postoperatively. There were no cases of extension lag. Fixed flexion deformity was present in 3 cases postoperatively. Average time to union at the proximal and distal ends of the osteotomy was 8 and 24 weeks respectively. There was no evidence of nonunion and no other significant complications occurred.     

Safe surgical technique: iliac osteotomy via the anterior approach for revision hip arthroplasty

Robert Judet first performed hip arthroplasty via the anterior approach (AA) in 1947 on an orthopaedic table. Our center has a near 20-year experience on more than 3500 patients operated by AA hip arthroplasty. While primary AA total hip arthroplasty techniques have been discussed in the literature, revision AA total hip arthroplasty techniques are relatively new. The current article in the Journal′s "Safe Surgical Technique" series describes the successful application of an adjunctive iliac osteotomy to improve femoral exposure in two selected patients undergoing AA revision hip arthroplasty. The potential risk/complications of an iliac osteotomy include iatrogenic fracture, malunion/nonunion, infection, and pain. These potential risks should be weighed against the potential benefits of improved surgical exposure and/or risks of other revision techniques. Future prospective longitudinal studies will be helpful to determine efficacy and risk profile compared to other revision techniques.     

Tibial tubercle osteotomy to improve exposure in complex knee fractures: A cadaveric study and case series

Adequate exposure is fundamental to safely and correctly perform open procedures around the knee. Tibial tubercle osteotomy (TTO) has previously been described as a method to improve exposure, particularly in complex primary elective knee arthroplasty or revision surgery. We describe a tibial tubercle osteotomy technique to improve exposure in complex knee fractures and a cadaveric study and trauma case series.MethodsA cadaveric study using 8 knee specimens was conducted using a lateral subvastus approach to the knee. Standardised pictures were taken of the exposure, the tibial tubercle osteotomy was performed and pictures were taken of the new exposed area. These images were compared using a computer program that calculated the area of exposure before and after tibial tubercle osteotomy and the results analysed. The technique was then used in a case series of 6 different complex knee fractures including three distal femoral, one periprosthetic distal femur and two tibial plateau fractures. The outcomes of these patients were followed clinically and radiologically.ResultsAll specimens in the cadaveric study demonstrated an increase in area of exposure after the TTO with a mean increase of 148%. All tibial tubercle osteotomies performed in the trauma case series were united by 6 months without complication.ConclusionsTibial tubercle osteotomy is a recognised technique for improving exposure to the knee. This has been demonstrated in a cadaveric study and in a case series of six complex fractures around the knee. If performed properly, this technique can be extended to appropriate trauma cases with good results.     

Bone-grafting for severe patellar bone loss during revision knee arthroplasty

BACKGROUND: Severe patellar bone loss may preclude adequate fixation of another patellar prosthesis as a part of revision knee replacement. The purpose of this study was to describe the surgical technique and early clinical results of an alternative to the conventional treatment options of either patellectomy or retention of the remaining patellar osseous shell. The goals of this procedure are to restore patellar bone stock and potentially to improve the functional outcome. METHODS: Severe patellar bone loss had left a "patellar shell" that precluded insertion of another patellar implant in nine of 100 consecutive knees undergoing revision total knee arthroplasty. Rather than performing a patellectomy or simply retaining the patellar osseous shell in these nine knees (eight patients), I performed a surgical procedure in which a tissue flap was secured to the patellar rim to contain cancellous bone graft inserted into the patellar bone defect. Final follow-up was at a mean of 36.7 months (range, twenty-four to fifty-five months) after the patellar bone-grafting procedure. RESULTS: The mean preoperative Knee Society scores for function and pain were 39 points (range, 18 to 82 points) and 40 points (range, 20 to 80 points), respectively. At the time of final follow-up, the Knee Society function and pain scores had improved significantly, to a mean function score of 91 points (range, 80 to 98 points) and a mean pain score of 84 points (range, 65 to 100 points) (p<0.05). The point of greatest patellar thickness measured intraoperatively ranged from 7 to 9 mm. Patellar thickness on immediate postoperative Merchant radiographs averaged 22 mm (range, 20 to 25 mm) whereas, at the time of final follow-up, patellar thickness averaged 19.7 mm (range, 17 to 22.5 mm). CONCLUSIONS: In contrast with other treatment alternatives, this surgical procedure imparts the potential for restoring patellar bone stock and may improve functional outcome by facilitating patellar tracking and improving quadriceps leverage. On the basis of satisfactory short-term to mid-term clinical results, this technique of patellar bone-grafting appears to be an important addition to the armamentarium of surgeons performing revision knee arthroplasties.