We present a case involving the revision of a
total knee arthroplasty with a
metal femoral component using a ceramic implant due to
metal hypersensitivity. A 58-year-old female patient underwent
total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with a standard
metal bicondylar knee system. She suffered from persistent
pain and strong limitations in her range of motion (ROM) associated with flexion during the early postoperative period. Arthroscopic arthrolysis of the knee joint and intensive active and passive physical treatment, in combination with a
cortisone regime, temporarily increased the ROM and reduced
pain. No signs of low grade
infection or other causes of implant failure were evident. Histology of synovial tissue revealed lymphoplasmacellular fibrinous tissue, consistent with a type IV
allergic reaction. Allergometry (skin reaction) revealed
type IV hypersensitivity against
nickel-II-
sulfate and
palladium chloride.
Revision surgery of the
metal components was performed with a cemented ceramic femoral component (same bicondylar design) and a cemented
titanium alloy tibial component. Postoperative evaluations were performed 10days, and 3 and 12months after the
revision surgery. There was an increased ROM in flexion to 90° at the 12month follow-up. No swelling or effusion was observed at all clinical examinations after the
revision surgery. No
pain at rest and moderate walking
pain were evident. The presented case demonstrates that ceramic implants are a promising
solution for patients suffering from
hypersensitivity to
metal ions in
total knee arthroplasty.