Periprosthetic fractures–a review article

Periprosthetic fractures around a total knee arthroplasty pose considerable challenges for the orthopedic surgeons. As the frequency of total knee arthroplasty increases, the incidence of periprosthetic fractures is increasing exponentially. Periprosthetic fractures around total knee replacement can involve the femur, tibia, or patella. Successful outcome following the treatment of periprosthetic fractures around total knee arthroplasty is defined as the absence of knee pain, fracture union in < 6 months, return to functional range of motion, and a normal ambulatory status. Various modalities like nailing, plating, or revision surgeries are available to tackle the periprosthetic fractures. More often than not, the treatment of choice weighs heavily in favor of surgical intervention, though it would be prudent to be aware of non-operative alternatives.