Early to midterm results of “low-friction” articulating antibiotic spacers for septic total knee arthroplasty

BACKGROUND: Infection of total knee arthroplasty is a complex problem often resulting in multiple surgeries for the patient. We examined the early to midterm results of a retained cemented “low-friction” metal-on-polyethylene articulating antibiotic spacer in total knee arthroplasty. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed patients with a total knee cemented articulating antibiotic spacer performed for joint sepsis. Patients were allowed full weight bearing and normal activities after eradication of the infection at 6 weeks postop. Two months later, patients were given the option of conversion to a revision implant vs retention of the spacer. We examined infection cure rate, mechanical failure, Knee Society Scores, range of motion, and patient factors associated with spacer retention. RESULTS: Fifty-five knees were studied with average follow-up of 1.8 years (0.2-8.4). Among patients choosing spacer retention (40%), the average follow-up time of the spacer was 3.3 years (0.6-8.4). Five patients (9.1%) required a repeat spacer for recurrent infection. CONCLUSIONS: Usage of articulating cement antibiotic spacers with a metal-on-polyethylene bearing couple provides excellent infection eradication, while also resulting in good functional outcomes. Early evidence suggests that use of the implant can be extended beyond typical timeframes and, in certain patient populations, may be suitable for a single-stage procedure.