Overview
Rotationplasty is a surgical technique mainly used for children with tumors near the knee, offering significant post-surgical mobility with prosthesis integration.
Purpose and Patient Selection
- Rotationplasty is recommended for patients, especially children, with tumors in or near the knee joint.
- The procedure is best applied in children who are still growing.
Surgical Procedure Steps
- The surgeon removes the affected bone segment along with the knee joint.
- Major blood vessels and nerves to the foot are preserved during surgery.
- The lower leg is rotated 180 degrees counterclockwise and reattached to the upper leg.
- The ankle becomes aligned with the previous knee joint, with the foot facing backward and heel forward.
- The ankle's movement mimics normal knee motion due to the rotation.
Anatomical and Growth Considerations
- Surgeons consider the child's age and growth potential when planning the procedure.
- Initially, the modified knee center is lower than the unaffected side.
- As the child grows, both knee centers align within three to six months.
Postoperative Care and Outcomes
- After bone healing, the patient is fitted with a prosthesis that uses the foot as the knee joint.
- The prosthetic socket accommodates the foot, allowing the ankle to serve as a functional knee.
- Over time, patients achieve improved control, function, and mobility.
- Most patients are able to walk independently and resume regular activities, including sports.