Patient-specific imaging and missed tumors: a catastrophic outcome

Am J Orthop (Belle Mead NJ). 2013 Dec;42(12):553-6.

Abstract

Patient-specific instrumentation (PSI) is a relatively new technology aimed at increasing the accuracy and efficiency of total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Its premise is reliant upon preoperative imaging techniques to acquire detailed measurements of a patient's distal femur and proximal tibia. Although a limited number of studies in the current literature have begun to critically evaluate this promising technology, a number of potential controversies exist. We present 2 patients with radiographic evidence of musculoskeletal neoplasms present on initial preoperative imaging that were not recognized prior to placement of patient-specific total knees. The expanding role of non-diagnostic imaging in TKA is examined, and we suggest guidelines for prevention of further devastating outcomes.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Arthroplasty, Replacement, Knee / methods
  • Femoral Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*
  • Femoral Neoplasms / surgery
  • Humans
  • Knee Joint / diagnostic imaging*
  • Knee Joint / surgery
  • Knee Prosthesis
  • Male
  • Osteosarcoma / diagnostic imaging*
  • Osteosarcoma / surgery
  • Radiography
  • Surgery, Computer-Assisted / methods
  • Treatment Outcome