O2129 UNICOMPARTMENTAL KNEE REPLACEMENT. A RADIOLOGICAL REVIEW OF THE MILLER GALANTE PROSTHESIS AFTER FIVE YEARS

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the signiþcance of radiolucent lines observed around the MG unicompartmental knee replacement. Method: Weight bearing AP and lateral þlms of 75 knees were reviewed in 56 patients. Each patient had pre-op, post-op and up to date þlms reviewed. On each postoperative þlm the prosthesis was divided into zones. Each zone was observed for evidence of a radiolucent line suggestive of loosening. Results: 75 unicompartmental replacements were performed in 56 patients. The mean follow up was 67.2 months (24–112 months). The femoral component showed no radiolucent lines in any zone in 97% of the knees. 79% of the knees showed no radiolucent lines on the AP view of the tibial component and 71% showed no evidence of radiolucent lines on the lateral view of the tibial component. The most frequent observation was the presence of a radiolucency in zone 1 on both the AP and lateral view of the tibial component. The early appearance of a radiolucency in zone 1 did not progress to aseptic loosening of the implants. Conclusion: The femoral component of the MG implant very rarely shows evidence of radiolucent lines suggestive of loosening. The presence of a radiolucent line in zone 1 of the tibia on the AP or lateral þlm does not lead to early failure of the implant.