Total knee arthroplasty in osteonecrosis.

Thirty-eight total knee arthroplasties in 36 patients were studied at 4 +/- 2 (mean, +/- SD) years follow-up evaluation. The Hospital for Special Surgery knee score improved from 59 +/- 9 (mean, +/- SD) before surgery to 83 +/- 11 (mean, +/- SD) (p less than 0.0001) at last evaluation. Good or excellent results were achieved in 87%. Implant survivorship at five years was predicted to be 85% using an endpoint of revision, or 68% using an end point of revision for moderate or severe pain. There was one failure for deep infection but no clinical or roentgenographic evidence of loosening.