Above Knee Amputation Following Total Knee Arthroplasty: When Enough Is Enough

In some cases, above knee amputation (AKA) for a chronically infected total knee arthroplasty is the only option. The purpose of this study was to assess patient satisfaction following AKA and to identify factors which may be indicative of successful outcome following AKA. A review was performed of 7 patients who underwent an AKA for a recurrent peri-prosthetic knee infection. Patient satisfaction was gauged through a modified questionnaire. All patients were satisfied with their AKA and 6 of 7 stated that they would have chosen an amputation earlier. Greater than 6 attempts at limb-salvage and failed gastrocnemius flap were identified by expert opinion as possible poor prognostic factors. Despite poor function, patients with chronically infected TKAs are satisfied following an AKA.