PATIENT OUTCOMES AFTER RETROGRADE KNEE FUSION WITH LONG INTRAMEDULLARY NAIL ING: A RETROSPECTIVE CASE SERIES FROM KUMI ORTHOPAEDIC CENTER

Abstract Knee arthrodesis is one of the last options available to obtain a stable and painless knee in a patient with a damaged knee joint that is not amenable to other surgical procedures. Primary stability in arthrodesis of the knee can be achieved by external fixation, intramedullary nailing or plate fixation. Each method has different features and results. The purpose of this study was to investigate the success of fusion with retrograde knee fusion technique and to evaluate the satisfaction of patients who underwent the procedure. Methods:This was a retrospective case series of 3 patients who had retrograde knee fusion done. These were all males aged 13, 28 and 34 years and were followed up for at least one year. Clinical and radiographic evaluationswere performed including examination of the patients’ quality of life using the MOS SF-36 questionnaire. Results: Knee fusion rate achieved was 3/3(100%).All patients could walk at least outside the house. Activity of Daily living independence was achieved by all the patientswith all patients scoring at least 50% and above in all the 8 domains of quality of life assessed. Physical functioning mean score of 70%, role limitations due to physical health problems mean score of 50%, bodily pain mean score of 83.75%, general health mean score of 72.5%, vitality mean score of 75%, social functioning mean score of 93.75%, role limitations due to emotional problems a mean score of 100% and mental health mean score of 100%.However, patients had a mean limb length discrepancyof 5.5cm. There was no complication reported within one year of follow up. Conclusion. We observed that retrograde knee fusion approach achieved successful knee fusion in all the patients with degrees of pain relief and functionality. Its therefore a valuable salvage procedure with acceptable clinical results. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to compare different fusion techniques and subsequent outcomes so as to help advise on the most effective approach.