Reconstruction of Disrupted Extensor Mechanism After Total Knee Arthroplasty

Background: Disruption of the extensor mechanism after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a debilitating complication that results in extension lag, limited range of motion, difficulty in walking, frequent falls, and chronic pain. This study presents the clinical and radiographic results of reconstruction after extensor mechanism disruption in TKA patients.

Methods: Consecutive patients with allograft reconstruction of extensor mechanism after TKA were identified retrospectively from an academic tertiary center for revision TKA.

Results: Sixteen patients with a mean age of 61 ± 14 years at extensor mechanism reconstruction with a minimum of 2-year follow-up were included. The mean follow-up was 3.3 ± 2.2 years. Knee Society score (KSS), before and at final follow-up extension lag, range of motion, and radiographic change in patellar height were reviewed. There were statistically significant improvements between preoperative and final follow-up KSS (P < .001; KSS for pain, preoperative 40 ± 14 points to final follow-up 67 ± 15 points [P < .001]; KSS for function, preoperative 26 ± 21 points to final follow-up 48 ± 25 points [P < .001]). The extension lag was also reduced from 35° ± 16° preoperatively to 14° ± 18° (P < .001) at final follow-up. There was an average proximal patellar migration of 8 ± 10 mm. Five (31%) cases had an extensor lag of >30° or revision surgery for repeat extensor mechanism reconstruction, infection, or arthrodesis.

Conclusion: Our 10-year experience using allografts during extensor mechanism reconstruction demonstrates reasonable outcomes, but failures are to be anticipated in approximately one-third of patients.