Late-Onset De Novo Genu Recurvatum after Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Potential Indication for Isolated Polyethylene Exchange

Abstract

Knee instability is the second most common cause of revision after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Genu recurvatum (GR) is the rarest form of instability usually occurring in patients with underlying conditions such as neuromuscular disorders and fixed valgus deformities. The literature regarding de novo post-TKA GR and its treatment is scarce. In this case series and review of literature, we aimed to review the treatment strategies of post-TKA GR and to present our experience in the treatment of late-onset de novo GR after TKA by isolated polyethylene exchange. To our knowledge, isolated polyethylene exchange has not been so far described for GR correction after TKA. We found a unique wear pattern at the base of the liner post in all 3 patients. They showed a satisfactory outcome with no recurrence on a mean follow-up of 26.67 months.

Keywords

• Total knee arthroplasty
• Genu recurvatum
• Hyperextension knee instability
• Polyethylene exchange