Two-stage reimplantation of septic total knee arthroplasty

The management of an infected total knee implant is a major challenge to the orthopaedic surgeon. This article reviews the use of antibiotic-PMMA spacer block in two-stage reimplanation of septic total knee arthroplasties. In addition to serving as an antibiotic delivery system between the time of component removal and reimplantation, the antibiotic-impregnated spacer block imparts mechanical stability to the joint and decreases the morbidity during the period before reimplantation. This temporary "interposition arthroplasty" facilitates the patient's ambulation and also simplifies dissection at the time of reimplantation. Furthermore, osteoporotic bone at the time of resection becomes firm, good-quality bone by the time of reimplantation.