Abstract
Introduction
Fixation remains a challenge in Revision TKR. Irregular and cavitary bone loss may precludeproper metaphyseal cementation and pressurization. Metaphyseal sleeves have been proposed to improve theinherent rotational stability of the implant bone interface. The goal of this study was to assess the effect of the use of metaphyseal sleeves on the quality of the cement fixation achieved.
Methods
Fifty consecutive revision TKRs for AORI type 2 and 3 bone loss between January 2005 through January 2008 with average 2 years follow up were assessed retrospectively. Twelve patients were excluded for inadequate follow up. Nineteen patients with 26 cemented metaphyseal sleeves (15 tibiae and 11 femora) formed group 1 and 19 patients with 36 revision components (without metaphyseal sleeves) served as control (group 2). Patients were assessed clinically with knee society scores (KSS) and radiographically by quality of metaphyseal cement mantle and radiolucent lines(RLL). Groups were matched for pre-op bone loss and length of follow-up.
Results
The presence of uniform cement mantle was 100% in group 1as opposed to only 70% (25 out of 36) in group 2. Incidence of metaphyseal RLL was 3.8% (1 out of 26 components) in group 1; as opposed to 16.7% (6 out of 36 components) in group 2. The average postoperative knee society and function score in group 1 was 90 and 80 and in group 2 was 88 and 81 respectively at final follow-up.
Conclusion
Cemented metaphyseal sleeves along with press fit stems provided reproducible cement mantle with minimal radiolucencies when compared to similar cases in whom only stems were used. This minimal incidence of RLLs at 2 years possibly has potential for better survivorship over the long term.
