Knee arthrodesis: long-term results.

A review of 41 patients in whom knee fusion was performed mainly for degenerative arthritis and sepsis disclosed that only 15% of patients were without complications. Complications were numerous and appeared both early and late - persistent knee and back pain were the most common. Many patients were unable to return to work or to participate in social activities. The optimal position for fusion is 15 to 20 degrees of flexion, which results in a smoother gait and less difficulty for the patient in driving a car. Because of the continued refinement in total knee joint replacement, the indications for knee arthrodesis should be confined to the treatment of chronic infection and failed total joint replacement.