Three-step sequential management for knee arthroplasty after severe ballistic injury: Two cases

Orthop Traumatol Surg Res. 2016 Feb;102(1):131-4. doi: 10.1016/j.otsr.2015.08.014. Epub 2016 Jan 7.

Abstract

Management of knee bone loss after gunshot trauma requires a multidisciplinary approach. Two cases of knee arthroplasty after devastating ballistic trauma are reported. Treatment comprised several steps: sampling, bone resection, reinforced cement spacer, latent sepsis control, and prosthetic reconstruction. The patients showed no neurovascular disorder and had a functioning extensor mechanism. At follow-up of at least 2 years, results were satisfactory, with return to unaided walking and mean International Knee Society (IKS) score improved from 18 to 59 points. In light of these observations, knee reconstruction arthroplasty using a sequential strategy can provide satisfactory functional outcome after severe ballistic trauma.

Keywords: Arthroplasty; Ballistics; Gunshot traumatism; Knee.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Arthroplasty, Replacement, Knee*
  • External Fixators
  • Humans
  • Knee Injuries / surgery*
  • Knee Joint / surgery
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Osteomyelitis / surgery
  • Therapeutic Irrigation
  • Wounds, Gunshot / surgery*