KNEE ARTHROPLASTY IN HEMOPHILIA - 5-12 YEAR FOLLOW-UP OF 15 PATIENTS

Between 1979 and 1987, 15 knee arthroplasties were performed in 15 Nor wegians with congenital disorders of blood coagulation. 10 patients wi th a median follow-up of 7 (5-12) years had an almost painless joint, without hemorrhage. Flexion contractures were corrected, but total ran ge of motion was not improved. There was a radiolucent zone at the bon e-cement interphase of the tibial stem in 2 knees. The placement of th e implants was correct and the alignment not changed. There were no fr actures. 1 prosthesis had been removed because of a chronic infection. 4 patients had died. We conclude that arthroplasty can be safely perf ormed with excellent relief of pain and improvement of function in pat ients with congenital disorders of blood coagulation.