Periprosthetic fractures in knee endoprostheses. Osteosynthesis

Periprosthetic fractures after total knee arthroplasty continue to increase due to the demographic changes. Despite improvements of therapy morbidity and mortality rates up to 46 % are still very high. Implant innovations offer better options for periprosthetic osteosynthesis and have led to good functional and radiographic outcome. Surgical therapy should be performed within 48 h, while emergency interventions remain the exception. Detailed preoperative planning and use of special implants and revision systems are essential. Management of these patients demands an interdisciplinary approach and should be performed in specialized centers. In the present article classifications, indications, techniques and results of periprosthetic osteosynthesis after total knee arthroplasty are presented.