The Use of Stems in Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty

Revision total knee arthroplasty has become an increasingly common reconstructive procedure. As the number of primary total knee arthroplasties continues to increase on a yearly basis, the need for revision surgery will likewise increase exponentially. Therefore, it is important to determine the best surgical techniques to manage revision problems as they are encountered. Most major manufacturers of total knee replacement offer modular revision knee systems. They use modular augmentations to deal with tibial and femoral bone loss. Most also feature intramedullary jig systems to make accurate revision bone cuts. In addition, manufacturers provide a variety of intra-medulary stems to enhance fixation in revision situations. Variable-length stems designed to be press-fit and cemented are commonly offered options. Offset stem couplers are also available to match different patient anatomy. This variety of stems can be implanted in a press-fit or cemented fashion.