Bio-Prosthesis - CENTRE FOR ORTHOPAEDICS, SPORTS MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION - Dr. Erich H. Rembeck

Bio-Prosthesis

General points for a bio-prosthesis

The irregular load distribution between the inner and outer side of a joint, can in the case of X and O-legs, lead to a premature arthritis. This can also affect young people. These axial malalignments are therefore not a cosmetic problem. For many patients an artificial joint replacement does not come into question because of their age or due to their absent willingness for such a procedure. It would therefore be attempted to retain the natural joint through biological methods (so-called bio-prostheis). Here it is necessary to undertake a combined operation which solves the cartilage problem, the axis problem and the meniscus problem all at the same time.

The already massively worn out cartilage surfaces are treated with cartilage abrasions and cartilage drilling, so that new cartilage replacement can form. Accompanying meniscus damage must be removed by either resectioning or reconstructive suturing methods. A correction of the incorrect leg axis in terms of a corrective osteotomy can also be undertaken. The corrective osteotomies are undertaken in such a way, that no bony material is removed. Through widening methods on the bone with subsequent fixation with special plates and screws, the changes to the axis can be induced. These combined methods have the goal to avoid an artificial knee joint and are also sometimes undertaken in borderline cases.

To improve the results of the operation, administered stem cells which are extracted either from the blood or from the bone marrow of the iliac crest during the operation can supplement the chance of healing. For all operative methods with the goal of restoring a "bioprosthesis", relieving methods with crutches for between 6 and 12 weeks are necessary.

Inability to Work

After the correction of the leg axis you stay approx. 1 week in the clinic. The following weeks are necessary for the rehabilitation methods. Depending on professional activity, light activities can be recommenced after 2 weeks; for heavy physical work you are partly unable to work for 10-12 weeks.

Sports Activities

8 weeks after the intervention, the bone cut for the corrections osteotomy is healed, and the replacement cartilage tissue has formed. A muscle building phase occurs for 3 months in an experienced rehabilitations centre. Sports activities are able to be recommenced after about half a year.