Tuberculosis infection complicating total knee arthroplasty: report of 3 cases and review of the literature.

Abstract

The incidence of osteoarticular tuberculosis in the knee and other joints is increasing. Three cases of active tuberculous infection in the presence of a total knee prosthesis are presented. The pathology was not diagnosed until the prosthesis had been removed in 2 patients. They underwent antituberculous therapy and revision arthroplasty. In the third patient, the diagnosis was made early. Antituberculous therapy was begun immediately, and the original prosthesis was retained. Good long-term results were achieved in all 3 cases.