Mid-term results and survival rates following a single-design rotating hinge knee arthroplasty in non-tumor conditions in a Pakistani population

BACKGROUND: Information regarding the use of hinged implants in non-oncological conditions is limited in our region due to a lack of adequate data collection and follow-up. The purpose of this study is to evaluate mid-term results and risk factors affecting the survivorship of third-generation rotating hinge knee (RHK) patients in non-oncological conditions. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 41 single, third-generation, rotating hinge prostheses in three complex primary knee procedures and 38 revision knee surgeries in between 2007 to 2014. Implant survival was assessed using the Kaplan-Meier method. Factors influencing implant survival were identified using the log-rank test. During the study period, clinical results along with complications were assessed. Clinical outcomes were assessed by using the Knee Society Score (KSS). RESULTS: RHK arthroplasty was used in 41 patients. Out of 41 patients, a RHK was used in three patients with a complex primary deformed knee whereas in 38 patients, a RHK was used in revision arthroplasty surgery. The cumulative implant survival rate with re-revision due to any cause was found to be 87.8% (95% CI 69.2–90.1) at 5–7 years. Prosthetic joint infection, peri-prosthetic fracture and extensor mechanism complications were the commonest mode of failure. The P value was found to be significant when comparing KSS pre-operatively and post-operatively. CONCLUSION: The cumulative implant survival rate was found to be 87.8%. Prosthetic joint infection was the commonest mode of failure in patients who underwent third-generation RHK surgery for variable indications. Being a patient with a high Charlson comorbidity index is the main risk factor associated with failure of the rotating hinge implant.