Aims

Revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA) is a technically challenging and costly procedure. It is well-documented that primary TKA (pTKA) have better survivorship than rTKA; however, we were unable to identify any studies explicitly investigating previous rTKA as a risk factor for failure following rTKA. The purpose of this study is to compare the outcomes following rTKA between patients undergoing index rTKA and those who had been previously revised.

Aims. Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a challenging complication of any arthroplasty procedure. We reviewed our use of static antibiotic-loaded cement spacers (ABLCSs) for staged management of PJI where segmental bone loss, ligamentous instability, or soft-tissue defects necessitate a static construct. We reviewed factors contributing to their failure and techniques to avoid these complications when using ABLCSs in this context. Methods. A retrospective analysis was conducted of 94 patients undergoing first-stage revision of an infected knee prosthesis between September 2007 and January 2020 at a single institution. Radiographs and clinical records were used to assess and classify the incidence and causes of static spacer failure. Of the 94 cases, there were 19 primary total knee arthroplasties (TKAs), ten revision TKAs (varus-valgus constraint), 20 hinged TKAs, one arthrodesis (nail), one failed spacer (performed elsewhere), 21 distal femoral endoprosthetic arthroplasties, and 22 proximal tibial arthroplasties. Results. A total of 35/94 patients (37.2%) had spacer-related complications, of which 26/35 complications (74.3%) were because of mechanical failure of the spacer construct, while 9/35 (25.7%) were due to recurrence of infection. Risk factors for internal failure were a construct where the total intramedullary spacer length was less than twice the length of the central osseous defect (p = 0.009), where proximal or distal intraosseous spacer contact was < 10%, and after tibial tubercle osteotomy (p = 0.005). The incidence of spacer complications significantly increased the time to second stage: mean 157 days (42 to 458) in those without complications versus 227 days (11 to 528) with complications (p = 0.014). Conclusion. The failure rate of static antibiotic-loaded cement spacers is much higher than anticipated. Complications of the spacer significantly increased the time to second-stage revision. The risk of mechanical failure is significantly increased if the spacer is less than double the size of the segmental defect, or if inadequate reinforcement is inserted into the residual bone. These findings serve as a guide for surgeons to avoid mechanical complications with static spacers. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(10):1067–1073

Aims. The outcome of repeat septic revision after a failed one-stage exchange for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains unknown. The aim of this study was to report the infection-free and all-cause revision-free survival of repeat septic revision after a failed one-stage exchange, and to determine whether the Musculoskeletal Infection Society (MSIS) stage is associated with subsequent infection-related failure. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed all repeat septic revision TKAs which were undertaken after a failed one-stage exchange between 2004 and 2017. A total of 33 repeat septic revisions (29 one-stage and four two-stage) met the inclusion criteria. The mean follow-up from repeat septic revision was 68.2 months (8.0 months to 16.1 years). The proportion of patients who had a subsequent infection-related failure and all-cause revision was reported and Kaplan-Meier survival for these endpoints was determined. Patients were categorized according to the MSIS staging system, and the association with subsequent infection was analyzed. Results. At the most recent follow-up, 17 repeat septic revisions (52%) had a subsequent infection-related failure and the five-year infection-free survival was 59% (95% confidence interval (CI) 39 to 74). A total of 19 underwent a subsequent all-cause revision (58%) and the five-year all-cause revision-free survival was 47% (95% CI 28 to 64). The most common indication for the first subsequent aseptic revision was loosening. The MSIS stage of the host status (p = 0.663) and limb status (p = 1.000) were not significantly associated with subsequent infection-related failure. Conclusion. Repeat septic revision after a failed one-stage exchange TKA for PJI is associated with a high rate of subsequent infection-related failure and all-cause revision. Patients should be counselled appropriately to manage expectations. The host and limb status according to the MSIS staging system were not associated with subsequent infection-related failure. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(3):386–393

Aims

The aim of this study was to describe the pattern of revision indications for unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and any change to this pattern for UKA patients over the last 20 years, and to investigate potential associations to changes in surgical practice over time.

Aims

Our aim was to estimate the total costs of all hospitalizations for treating periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) by main management strategy within 24 months post-diagnosis using activity-based costing. Additionally, we investigated the influence of individual PJI treatment pathways on hospital costs within the first 24 months.

Aim. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) aggravates an already difficult treatment of periprosthetic joint infections (PJI). The prevalence of drug-resistant pathogens varies across countries and increases over time. Regular monitoring of bacteriological analyses should be performed. Due to many factors influencing the AMR, the correct choice of antimicrobial management remains arguable. The primary purpose of this retrospective study was to identify and compare causative bacteria and to compare the incidence of antibiotic resistance between the septic revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and septic revision total hip arthroplasty (THA). Method. A review of all revision TKAs and revision THAs, undertaken between 2007 and 2020 in a tertiary referral centre, was performed. Included were cases meeting the consensus criteria for PJI, in which an organism has been identified. There were no major differences in tissue sampling between revision TKAs and revision THAs over time. Results. A total of 228 bacterial strains, isolated after revision TKA and THA, were analysed for their resistance to 20 different antibiotics. There was a statistically significant higher occurrence of Gram-negative bacteria (p=0.002) and Enterococcus species (p=0.026) identified after revision THAs compared to TKA. The comparison of antibiotic resistance between revision TKAs and revision THAs was statistically significant in 9 of 20 analysed antibiotics. Pathogens isolated after revision THA were much more resistant compared to pathogens isolated after revision TKA. Resistance in revision THAs was significantly higher to oxacillin (p=0.03), ciprofloxacin (p<0.001), levofloxacin (p<0.001), moxifloxacin (p=0.005), clindamycin (p<0.001), co-trimoxazole (p<0.001), imipenem (p=0.01), rifampicin (p=0.005) and tetracycline (p=0.009). There was no significantly higher resistance of pathogens isolated after revision TKAs detected. No statistically significant difference in antibiotic resistance of Gram-negative bacteria between revision TKA and revision THA was observed. Conclusions. The occurrence and the resistance of bacteria to antibiotics differs significantly between revision TKAs and revision THAs. This has implications on of the choice of empirical antibiotic in revision surgery as well as prophylactic antibiotic in primary surgery, depending on the joint that is to be replaced

Aims. Nonagenarians (aged 90 to 99 years) have experienced the fastest percent decile population growth in the USA recently, with a consequent increase in the prevalence of nonagenarians living with joint arthroplasties. As such, the number of revision total hip arthroplasties (THAs) and total knee arthroplasties (TKAs) in nonagenarians is expected to increase. We aimed to determine the mortality rate, implant survivorship, and complications of nonagenarians undergoing aseptic revision THAs and revision TKAs. Methods. Our institutional total joint registry was used to identify 96 nonagenarians who underwent 97 aseptic revisions (78 hips and 19 knees) between 1997 and 2018. The most common indications were aseptic loosening and periprosthetic fracture for both revision THAs and revision TKAs. Mean age at revision was 92 years (90 to 98), mean BMI was 27 kg/m. 2. (16 to 47), and 67% (n = 65) were female. Mean time between primary and revision was 18 years (SD 9). Kaplan-Meier survival was used for patient mortality, and compared to age- and sex-matched control populations. Reoperation risk was assessed using cumulative incidence with death as a competing risk. Mean follow-up was five years. Results. Mortality rates were 9%, 18%, 26%, and 62% at 90 days, one year, two years, and five years, respectively, but similar to control populations. There were 43 surgical complications and five reoperations, resulting in a cumulative incidence of reoperation of 4% at five years. Medical complications were common, with a cumulative incidence of 65% at 90 days. Revisions for periprosthetic fractures were associated with higher mortality and higher 90-day risk of medical complications compared to revisions for aseptic loosening. Conclusion. Contemporary revision THAs and TKAs appeared to be relatively safe in selected nonagenarians managed with multidisciplinary teams. Cause of revision affected morbidity and mortality risks. While early medical and surgical complications were frequent, they seldom resulted in reoperation. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(6):649–656

Aims. In the last decade, perioperative advancements have expanded the use of outpatient primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Despite this, there remains limited data on expedited discharge after revision TKA. This study compared 30-day readmissions and reoperations in patients undergoing revision TKA with a hospital stay greater or less than 24 hours. The authors hypothesized that expedited discharge in select patients would not be associated with increased 30-day readmissions and reoperations. Methods. Aseptic revision TKAs in the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database were reviewed from 2013 to 2020. TKAs were stratified by length of hospital stay (greater or less than 24 hours). Patient demographic details, medical comorbidities, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade, operating time, components revised, 30-day readmissions, and reoperations were compared. Multivariate analysis evaluated predictors of discharge prior to 24 hours, 30-day readmission, and reoperation. Results. Of 21,610 aseptic revision TKAs evaluated, 530 were discharged within 24 hours. Short-stay patients were younger (63.1 years (49 to 78) vs 65.1 years (18 to 94)), with lower BMI (32.3 kg/m. 2. (17 to 47) vs 33.6 kg/m. 2. (19 to 54) and lower ASA grades. Diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, hypertension, and cancer were all associated with a hospital stay over 24 hours. Single component revisions (56.8% (n = 301) vs 32.4% (n = 6,823)), and shorter mean operating time (89.7 minutes (25 to 275) vs 130.2 minutes (30 to 517)) were associated with accelerated discharge. Accelerated discharge was not associated with 30-day readmission and reoperation. Conclusion. Accelerated discharge after revision TKA did not increase short-term complications, readmissions, or reoperations. Further efforts to decrease hospital stays in this setting should be evaluated. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(12):1323–1328

Aims. Tibial cones are often utilized in revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with metaphyseal defects. Because there are few studies evaluating mid-term outcomes with a sufficient cohort, the purpose of this study was to evaluate tibial cone survival and complications in revision TKAs with tibial cones at minimum follow-up of five years. Methods. A retrospective review was completed from September 2006 to March 2015, evaluating 67 revision TKAs (64 patients) that received one specific porous tibial cone during revision TKA. The final cohort was composed of 62 knees (59 patients) with five years of clinical follow-up or reoperation. The mean clinical follow-up of the TKAs with minimum five-year clinical follow-up was 7.6 years (5.0 to 13.3). Survivorship analysis was performed with the endpoints of tibial cone revision for aseptic loosening, tibial cone revision for any reason, and reoperation. We also evaluated periprosthetic joint infection (PJI), risk factors for failure, and performed a radiological review. Results. The rate of cone revision for aseptic loosening was 6.5%, with an eight-year survival of 95%. Significant bone loss (Anderson Orthopaedic Research Institute grade 3) was associated with cone revision for aseptic loosening (p = 0.002). The rate of cone revision for any reason was 17.7%, with an eight-year survival of 84%. Sixteen percent of knees developed PJI following revision. A pre-revision diagnosis of reimplantation as part of a two-stage exchange protocol for infection was associated with both PJI (p < 0.001) and tibial cone revision (p = 0.001). Conclusion. Mid-term results of tibial cones showed a survivorship free of cone revision for aseptic loosening of 95%. Patients with significant bone loss were more likely to have re-revision for tibial cone failure. Infection was common, and patients receiving cones at reimplantation were more likely to develop PJI and undergo cone revision. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(6 Supple A):158–164

Aims. Varus-valgus constrained (VVC) implants are often used during revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) to gain coronal plane stability. However, the increased mechanical torque applied to the bone-cement interface theoretically increases the risk of aseptic loosening. We assessed mid-term survivorship, complications, and clinical outcomes of a fixed-bearing VVC device in revision TKAs. Methods. A total of 416 consecutive revision TKAs (398 patients) were performed at our institution using a single fixed-bearing VVC TKA from 2007 to 2015. Mean age was 64 years (33 to 88) with 50% male (199). Index revision TKA diagnoses were: instability (n = 122, 29%), aseptic loosening (n = 105, 25%), and prosthetic joint infection (PJI) (n = 97, 23%). All devices were cemented on the epiphyseal surfaces. Femoral stems were used in 97% (n = 402) of cases, tibial stems in 95% (n = 394) of cases; all were cemented. In total, 93% (n = 389) of cases required a stemmed femoral and tibial component. Femoral cones were used in 29%, and tibial cones in 40%. Survivorship was assessed via competing risk analysis; clinical outcomes were determined using Knee Society Scores (KSSs) and range of movement (ROM). Mean follow-up was four years (2 to 10). Results. The five-year cumulative incidence of subsequent revision for aseptic loosening and instability were 2% (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.2 to 3, number at risk = 154) and 4% (95% CI 2 to 6, number at risk = 153), respectively. The five-year cumulative incidence of any subsequent revision was 14% (95% CI 10 to 18, number at risk = 150). Reasons for subsequent revision included PJI (n = 23, of whom 12 had previous PJI), instability (n = 13), and aseptic loosening (n = 11). The use of this implant without stems was found to be a significant risk factor for subsequent revision (hazard ratio (HR) 7.58 (95% CI 3.98 to 16.03); p = 0.007). KSS improved from 46 preoperatively to 81 at latest follow-up (p < 0.001). ROM improved from 96° prerevision to 108° at latest follow-up (p = 0.016). Conclusion. The cumulative incidence of subsequent revision for aseptic loosening and instability was very low at five years with this fixed-bearing VVC implant in revision TKAs. Routine use of cemented and stemmed components with targeted use of metaphyseal cones likely contributed to this low rate of aseptic loosening. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(4):458–462

Aims. Metaphyseal cones with cemented stems are frequently used in revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, if the diaphysis has been previously violated, the resultant sclerotic canal can impair cemented stem fixation, which is vital for bone ingrowth into the cone, and long-term fixation. We report the outcomes of our solution to this problem, in which impaction grafting and a cemented stem in the diaphysis is combined with an uncemented metaphyseal cone, for revision TKA in patients with severely compromised bone. Methods. A metaphyseal cone was combined with diaphyseal impaction grafting and cemented stems for 35 revision TKAs. There were two patients with follow-up of less than two years who were excluded, leaving 33 procedures in 32 patients in the study. The mean age of the patients at the time of revision TKA was 67 years (32 to 87); 20 (60%) were male. Patients had undergone a mean of four (1 to 13) previous knee arthroplasty procedures. The indications for revision were aseptic loosening (80%) and two-stage reimplantation for prosthetic joint infection (PJI; 20%). The mean follow-up was four years (2 to 11). Results. Survival free from revision of the cone/impaction grafting construct due to aseptic loosening was 100% at five years. Survival free from any revision of the construct and free from any reoperation were 92% and 73% at five years, respectively. A total of six patients (six TKAs, 17%) required a further revision, four for infection or wound issues, and two for periprosthetic fracture. Radiologically, one unrevised TKA had evidence of loosening which was asymptomatic. In all unrevised TKAs the impacted diaphyseal bone graft appeared to be incorporated radiologically. Conclusion. When presented with a sclerotic diaphysis and substantial metaphyseal bone loss, this technique combining diaphyseal impaction grafting with a metaphyseal cone provided near universal success in relation to implant fixation. Moreover, radiographs revealed incorporation of the bone graft and biological fixation of the cone. While long-term follow-up will be important, this technique provides an excellent option for the management of complex revision TKAs. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(6 Supple A):116–122

Background. The knowledge about the common mode of failure and each period in primary and revision TKAs offers useful information to prevent those kinds of failure in each surgery. However, there has been limited report that simultaneously compared the mode of failure between primary and revision TKAs using single prosthesis. We compared the survival rate, mode of failure, and periods of each mode of failure between primary and revision TKAs. Methods. A consecutive cohort of 1606 knees (1174 patients) of primary TKA and 258 knees (224 patients) of revision TKA using P.F.C® prosthesis was retrospectively reviewed. The mean follow-up periods of primary and revision TKAs were 10.2 and 10.8 years, respectively. We compared the above variables between primary and revision TKAs. Results. The average 5-, 10-, 15-year survivor rate of primary TKA were 99.1% (CI 95%, ±0.3%), 96.7% (CI 95%, ±0.7%), and 85.4% (CI 95%, ±2.0%). They were 97.8% (CI 95%, ±1.0%), 91.4% (CI 95%, ±2.5%), and 80.5% (CI 95%, ±4.5%) in revision TKA. The common mode of failure included polyethylene wear, loosening, and infection in both primary and revision TKAs. The most common mode of failure was polyethylene wear in primary TKAs and infection in revision TKAs. The mean periods of polyethylene wear and loosening were not significantly different between primary and revision TKAs, but the mean period of infection was significantly long in revision TKA (4.8 years vs. 1.2 years, p=0.003). Conclusions. The survival rate decreased with time, especially after 10 years in both primary and revision TKAs. The continuous efforts are required to prevent and detect various modes of failure during the long-term follow-up after primary and revision TKAs. More careful attention is necessary to detect the late infection as a mode of failure after revision TKA. Level of Evidence. Level III, Therapeutic study. See the Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence

Aims. We have previously reported the mid-term outcomes of revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) for flexion instability. At a mean of four years, there were no re-revisions for instability. The aim of this study was to report the implant survivorship and clinical and radiological outcomes of the same cohort of of patients at a mean follow-up of ten years. Methods. The original publication included 60 revision TKAs in 60 patients which were undertaken between 2000 and 2010. The mean age of the patients at the time of revision TKA was 65 years, and 33 (55%) were female. Since that time, 21 patients died, leaving 39 patients (65%) available for analysis. The cumulative incidence of any re-revision with death as a competing risk was calculated. Knee Society Scores (KSSs) were also recorded, and updated radiographs were reviewed. Results. The cumulative incidence of any re-revision was 13% at a mean of ten years. At the most recent-follow-up, eight TKAs had been re-revised: three for recurrent flexion instability (two fully revised to varus-valgus constrained implants (VVCs), and one posterior-stabilized (PS) implant converted to VVC, one for global instability (PS to VVC), two for aseptic loosening of the femoral component, and two for periprosthetic joint infection). The ten-year cumulative incidence of any re-revision for instability was 7%. The median KSS improved significantly from 45 (interquartile range (IQR) 40 to 50) preoperatively to 70 (IQR 45 to 80) at a mean follow-up of ten years (p = 0.031). Radiologically, two patients, who had not undergone revision, had evidence of loosening (one tibial and one patellar). The remaining components were well fixed. Conclusion. We found fair functional outcomes and implant survivorship at a mean of ten years after revision TKA for flexion instability with a PS implant. Recurrent instability and aseptic loosening were the most common indications for re-revision. Components with increased constraint, such as a VVC or hinged, should be used in these patients in order to reduce the risk of recurrent instability. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(10):1126–1131

Introduction. Revision total knee arthroplasty (revision TKA) occurs for a wide variety of indications and along with revision total hip arthroplasty is billed for using Diagnosis-Related Groups (DRGs) 466, 467, and 468 in the United States. However, DRGs do not account for revision etiology, a potentially substantial driver of cost. This study investigates revision TKA costs and 30-day complications by indication, employing both local granular as well as national standardized databases. Methods. Hospitalization costs and complication rates for 1,422 aseptic revision TKAs performed at a high-volume center between 2009 and 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Additionally, charges for 28,173 revision TKAs in the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) were converted to costs using the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project cost-to-charge ratios. 30-day complication rates for 3,450 revision TKAs were obtained using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Project (ACS-NSQIP). Costs and complications were compared between revision TKAs performed for the indication of fracture, wear/loosening, and instability with use of simultaneous and pairwise comparisons and a multivariable model accounting for American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, age, and sex. Results. Local hospitalization costs for fracture (median, $30,643) were significantly higher than those for wear/loosening ($24,734; p < 0.001) or instability ($22,932; p < 0.001), with differences remaining significant even after adjusting for patient comorbidities (p < 0.001). Local fracture patients were admitted for an average of 1.9 days longer (mean length of stay [LOS]: 4.8 days; IQR: 3 – 6) than instability patients (mean LOS: 2.9; IQR: 2 – 3; p < 0.001) and 1.7 days longer than wear/loosening patients (mean LOS: 3.1, IQR: 2 – 3; p < 0.001) but had similar 30-day orthopedic-specific complication rates (10.8%) as compared to instability (11.2%; p > 0.999) and wear/loosening (15.9%; p = 0.333). Nationally, NIS costs for fracture (median, $31,207) were higher than those for other aseptic indications (wear/loosening: $21,747; instability: $16,456; p< 0.001). Combined medical and surgical complication rates for fracture (56.6% of patients with ≥1 complication) were significantly higher than those for wear/loosening (19.7%) and instability (15.5%) (p < 0.001), with 3.5 – 5.4 fold increased transfusion rates (45.7% fracture, 13.2% wear/loosening, 8.5% instability; p < 0.001) and 1.2 – 3.3 fold increased urinary tract infection rates (2.3% fracture, 0.7% wear/loosening, 1.9% instability; p = 0.004). Discussion and Conclusion. Hospitalization costs for revision TKA for fracture were 37% to 50% higher than for all other aseptic revision TKAs, both locally and nationally. This increased cost persisted even after multivariable comorbidity adjustment, the current approach for DRG assignment for both revision TKA and THA reimbursement. Indication-specific coding and reimbursement systems are necessary to maintain sustainable access to revision TKA for all patients. For figures, tables, or references, please contact authors directly

Background. As life expectancy increases, the number of octogenarians requiring primary and revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is increasing. Recently, primary TKA has become a common treatment option in octogenarians. However, surgeons are still hesitant about performing revision TKA on octogenarians because of concerning about risk- and cost-benefit. The purpose of this study was to investigate postoperative complications and mid-term survival in octogenarians following primary and revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Methods. We retrospectively reviewed 231 primary TKAs and 41 revision TKAs performed on octogenarians between 2000 and 2016. The mean age was 81.9 for primary TKA and 82.3 for revision TKA (p=0.310). The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score was not different, but the age-adjusted Charlson comorbidity index was higher in revision TKA (4.4 vs. 4.8, p=0.003). The mean follow-up period did not differ (3.8 vs. 3.5 years, p=0.451). The WOMAC scores and range of motion (ROM) were evaluated. The incidence of postoperative complication and survival rate (end point; death determined by telephone or mail communication with patient or family) were investigated. Results. The postoperative WOMAC and ROM were better in primary TKA (33.1 vs. 47.2, p<0.001; 128.9° vs. 113.6°, p<0.001). The most common postoperative complication was delirium in both groups (7.4% vs. 14.6%, p=0.131). There were no differences in the specific complication rates between the two groups. The 5- and 10-year survival rates were 87.2% and 62.9%, respectively, in primary TKA and 82.1% and 42.2%, respectively, in revision TKA (p=0.017). Conclusions. Both primary and revision TKAs are viable options for octogenarians when considering the clinical results and mid-term survival. Delirium needs to be managed appropriately as the most common complication in both primary and revision TKAs for octogenarians

Introduction. Metaphyseal cones with cemented stems are frequently used in revision total knee arthroplasties (TKAs). However, if the diaphysis has been previously violated (as in revision of a failed stemmed implant), the resultant sclerotic canal can impair cemented stem fixation, which is vital for cone ingrowth and long-term fixation. We report the outcomes of our novel solution to this problem, in which impaction grafting and a cemented stem in the diaphysis was combined with an uncemented metaphyseal cone for revision TKAs with severely compromised bone. Methods. A metaphyseal cone was combined with diaphyseal impaction grafting and cemented stems in a novel fashion for 35 revision TKAs. Mean age at revision TKA was 70 years, with 63% being male. Patients had a mean of 4 prior knee arthroplasty procedures. Indications for the revision with this construct were aseptic loosening (80%) and two-stage re-implantation for periprosthetic infection (PJI; 20%). Mean follow-up was 3 years. Results. Survivorship free from revision of the cone/impaction grafting construct due to aseptic loosening was 100% at 5 years. Survivorships free from any revision of the cone/impaction grafting construct and free from any reoperation were 92% and 73% at 5 years, respectively. Six knees (17%) required a reoperation (4 for infection/wound issues and 2 for periprosthetic fractures). Radiographically, 97% of cones were ingrown (1 loose cone in setting of PJI). In all but one case, impacted diaphyseal bone graft appeared to have incorporated radiographically. Conclusions. When presented with a sclerotic diaphysis and substantial metaphyseal bone loss, this innovative technique combining diaphyseal impaction grafting with a metaphyseal cone provided near universal success in regards to implant fixation. Moreover, radiographs revealed incorporation of the bone graft, and ingrowth of the cones. While long-term follow-up is required, this novel technique provides an excellent option in the most difficult of revision TKAs. For figures, tables, or references, please contact authors directly

Introduction. Vancomycin is a prophylactic antibiotic used to protect against methicillin resistant staph aureus. Recent literature has suggested that using intraosseus (IO) infusions are capable of providing improved local tissue concentrations compared to intravenous (IV) access. The purpose of this study is to evaluate clinical outcomes of patients who received pre-operative IO vancomycin for total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Methods. Patients who received IO vancomycin (500mg vancomycin in 200ml NS) as standard of care from September 1, 2018 to March 1, 2019 were retrospectively evaluated. This data was compared to primary and revision TKAs performed immediately prior to the initiation of IO administration. Evaluation included pre and post-op creatinine values, tourniquet time (TT), and knee-related 30 and 90-day complications. Data for primary and revision TKA cases were analyzed independently. Results. Final analysis had 100 primaries and 29 revisions in the control (IV) and 100 primaries and 19 revisions in the intervention (IO) arm. 30 and 90-day complications were not significantly different in primaries, while decreased 30–day complications for revisions approached significance (control=17.2%, intervention=10.5%). 90-day complications were decreased in the revision group receiving IO (Control=27.6%, Intervention = 0%; p=0.015). No cases of Redman Syndrome were identified. No increase in post-operative creatinine values occurred. TT was increased by 1.87min in the PI, which was not statistically significant (p=0.10). Discussion / Conclusion. We've demonstrated IO vancomycin is a safe and effective alternative to using pre-operative IV vancomycin. This is one of the largest series to date evaluating the clinical outcomes while using IO antibiotics pre-operatively in TKA. Patients who receive IO vancomycin have equivalent or improved 30 and 90-day complication rates, significantly so in revision TKAs. In addition, this study evaluated longer-term outcomes of revision TKAs that are provided IO vancomycin, proving it may be appropriate to extend indications. For figures, tables, or references, please contact authors directly

Aims. The management of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is challenging. The correct antibiotic management remains elusive due to differences in epidemiology and resistance between countries, and reports in the literature. Before the efficacy of surgical treatment is investigated, it is crucial to analyze the bacterial strains causing PJI, especially for patients in whom no organisms are grown. Methods. A review of all revision TKAs which were undertaken between 2006 and 2018 in a tertiary referral centre was performed, including all those meeting the consensus criteria for PJI, in which organisms were identified. Using a cluster analysis, three chronological time periods were created. We then evaluated the antibiotic resistance of the identified bacteria between these three clusters and the effectiveness of our antibiotic regime. Results. We identified 129 PJIs with 161 culture identified bacteria in 97 patients. Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS) were identified in 46.6% cultures, followed by Staphylococcus aureus in 19.8%. The overall resistance to antibiotics did not increase significantly during the study period (p = 0.454). However, CNS resistance to teicoplanin (p < 0.001), fosfomycin (p = 0.016), and tetracycline (p = 0.014) increased significantly. Vancomycin had an 84.4% overall sensitivity and 100% CNS sensitivity and was the most effective agent. Conclusion. Although we were unable to show an overall increase in antibiotic resistance in organisms that cause PJI after TKA during the study period, this was not true for CNS. It is concerning that resistance of CNS to new antibiotics, but not vancomycin, has increased in a little more than a decade. Our findings suggest that referral centres should continuously monitor their bacteriological analyses, as these have significant implications for prophylactic treatment in both primary arthroplasty and revision arthroplasty for PJI. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(6 Supple A):171–176

Introduction. Tibial cones are often utilized in revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with metaphyseal defects. However, there are few studies evaluating outcomes out to five years with a sufficient cohort. The purpose of this study was to evaluate implant survivorship and complications in revision TKAs with tibial cones. Methods. A retrospective review was completed from September 2006 through March 2018 evaluating 149 revision TKAs that received a tibial cone. The mean follow-up was 5.3 years. According to the AORI classification: 8% were 1, 18% were 2A, 55% were 2B, and 19% were 3. Results. Survival analysis at 6 years showed 96% free of revision for aseptic tibial loosening, 85% free of tibial component revision for any reason, and 72% free of reoperation. Eleven knees had progressive radiolucent lines with eight having tibial construct migration on serial radiographs. Aseptic tibial loosening was associated with significant tibial bone loss, AORI 3 (p=0.0001). Tibial component revision for any reason was associated with AORI 3 (p=0.013) and a pre-revision diagnosis of reimplantation after PJI (p<0.0001). Four knees had revision for aseptic tibial loosening, 12 knees had revision of the tibial construct for reasons other than aseptic loosening (11/12 were for PJI), and 15 knees had reoperation for reasons other than tibial construct revision. Conclusions. Revision TKA with tibial cones had excellent survivorship free of revision for tibial construct aseptic loosening, 96% at 6 years. Patients receiving a tibial cone construct at the time of reimplantation for PJI were at increased risk for tibial construct revision

Introduction. Mechanical or corrosive failure of total knee arthroplasties (TKAs) is difficult to diagnose with current laboratory and radiographic analyses. As such, the goal of this study was to determine the mean blood concentration of cobalt, chromium, and titanium in a series of revision TKAs with mechanical implant failure and evaluate whether they facilitated identification of the underlying TKA failure mechanism. Methods. Serum cobalt, chromium, and titanium levels and synovial fluid characteristics were evaluated in 12 patients (13 aseptic revision TKAs) who underwent revision TKA between 2000 and 2020 at a single academic institution for mechanical implant failure or corrosion. Seventy-five percent were re-revisions of previously revised TKAs. Mean time to revision was 6 years. Modular metallic junctions were present in 100%. Twenty-five percent did not have another in situ total joint arthroplasty, and the remaining patients did not have a metal-on-metal articulation that could lead to elevation in serum metal ion levels. Mean follow-up after the revision TKA was 8 months. Results. Mean serum cobalt, chromium, and titanium concentrations were 11 ng/mL, 6 ng/mL, and 3 ng/mL, respectively. Serum metal ion levels facilitated failure mechanism identification in 75%, which included modular junction failure (6 cases), constraint locking mechanism failure (3 cases), corrosion of modular metallic interfaces (2 cases), and implant fracture (1 case). Arthrocentesis was performed in 75%. Mean synovial fluid cell count was 950 cells/mcL. Monocytes were the predominant mean cell type (41%), followed by neutrophils (35%), and lymphocytes (22%). Conclusion. Serum metal ion assessment should be considered when the etiology of painful primary or revision TKAs, particularly those with modular metallic junctions, remains elusive after routine evaluation