[Endoprosthetic tumor replacement : Reconstruction of the extensor mechanism and complications].

BACKGROUND

The reconstruction of the extensor mechanism around the knee is an essential part of tumorresection and tumor arthroplasty in orthopaedic oncology for functional rehabilitation of quality of life and daily activities.

OBJECTIVES

Operative procedures, treatment options and management of complications with reconstruction of the extensor mechanism after tumor resection around the knee depend on the type of arthroplasty.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Description of the different treatment option for extensor deficiency divided into infra- and suprapatellar modalities.

RESULTS

The operative procedure is always an individual decision depending on the size of the tumor and its localisation. The extensor mechanism is reconstructed with autogenic, allogenic or synthetic material in combination with tumor arthroplasty.

CONCLUSIONS

Extensor reconstruction (supra-/infrapatellar) is an essential part of tumor resection and tumor arthroplasty around the knee. Often, low functional results and high levels of complications (arthrofibrosis, rerupture extensor mechanism, periprosthetic joint infection) are seen in these highly demanding cases in orthopaedic oncology.