[Long-term comparison of the "St. Georg" knee endoprosthesis system. 10-year survival rates of 2,236 gliding and hinge endoprosthesis].

A comparison of results between the total hinge and the sled prosthesis "St. Georg" has revealed significantly inferior results for the sled prosthesis due to a greater number of aseptic loosenings predominantly of the tibial component, primary and secondary laxity of ligaments and/or residual pain, e.g. due to malposition. The 10-years survival rate for the total hinge prosthesis was 94 per cent, thus exceeding the results obtained in total hip arthroplasty. The disadvantages of the rigid hinge models, as for instance unphysiological support and guidance and insufficient cushioning during knee motion have been compensated for in our modification, the "Endo" rotational knee prosthesis. The indications for a surface knee replacement are restricted to cases with an intact ligamentous apparatus and unicondylar arthrosis.