Periprosthetic knee fractures

Fractures around prosthetic knee implants are currently a much debated problem, given the high rates of posterior complications recorded regardless of the treatment employed. This is especially troublesome since it means that the functional result obtained will inevitable be compromised. A perfect systematization and classification of different fracture patterns will make it possible to make well-founded therapeutic decisions. In addition to the systemic patient-related factors, every case presents other factors, alignment being the most important one. The types of implants used at present, together with the concept of modularity and the broad therapeutic arsenal available in knee trauma, make it possible to carry out therapeutic planning in a customized way based not only on the patient but also on the fracture type present. Retrograde nails and the different types of nail-plate fixation play a leading role in the surgical management of these patients. However, orthopedic treatment remains the preferred option on some occasions.