Treatment of Bifocal Periprosthetic Fractures above and below a Knee after Tumor using Spanning Ilizarov Device : A Case Report

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Multiple treatment options and internal and external devices have been recommended for periprosthetic fractures management around total knee arthroplasty. CASE REPORT: We present the case of the high-energy bifocal periprosthetic fractures of the femur and the tibia after total knee prosthesis following excision of a tumor. One of the fractures was an open tibial fracture Gustilo Type IIIB and the other - comminuted subtrochanteric fracture of the femur with extrusion of periprosthetic cement pieces out from the bone defect. The Ilizarov circular external fixator was used for the skeletal stabilization and early functional treatment in this compound case. CONCLUSION: The use of Ilizarov external fixator for patients with complex periprosthetic fractures, who present severe technical difficulties in bone stabilization, especially by concomitant severe soft-tissue damage after high-energy injuries, is a good surgical alternative.