Managing Knee Arthrodesis Conversion to Arthroplasty in a Young Patient: Surgical Strategy, Challenges, and Functional Recovery After 1 Year

Conversion of knee arthrodesis to total knee arthroplasty is a technically demanding procedure, particularly in young patients with a history of trauma and infection. This report outlines the surgical strategy and 1-year functional outcome of a 24-year-old patient who underwent total knee arthroplasty 4 years after knee fusion. Management included soft tissue reconstruction, tibial tubercle osteotomy, gastrocnemius flap coverage, and rotating hinge knee implantation. At 1-year follow-up, the patient showed marked clinical improvement, with improved in KOOS and WOMAC scores, pain relief, and quality of life. Markerless 3D kinematic gait analysis was also performed post-conversion. This report describes key surgical considerations and preoperative work-up for the successful conversion of knee arthrodesis to arthroplasty.