Circular hexapod external fixation for periprosthetic tibial fracture

Arthroplast Today. 2017 Jun 9;4(2):192-199. doi: 10.1016/j.artd.2017.03.001. eCollection 2018 Jun.

Abstract

A poor soft tissue envelope often accompanies periprosthetic tibia fracture around a well-fixed total knee arthroplasty and the tibial stem leaves little room for screw fixation. This article describes the practicability and effectiveness of a novel surgical technique using circular hexapod external fixation, in patients with this clinical scenario. It was applied for fixation of periprosthetic tibia fracture in 2 patients. Contact between the external fixation pins and the prosthesis was avoided. Using a web-based software program, a gradual reduction in all planes was achieved. Adequate fixation, stability, reduction, and quick healing were obtained in the 2 cases, with minimal complications. The patients returned to their activity level a few months after external fixation removal.

Keywords: Arthroplasty; External fixation; Gradual correction; Periprosthetic fracture; Taylor spatial frame; Total knee arthroplasty.