To evaluate clinical results of total knee replacement arthroplasty for stiff or ankylosed knees.

This study reviewed 31 knees of 27 patients who underwent total knee replacement arthroplasties between August 1989 and May 1998. All patients had severe limitations of motion preoperatively with a range of motion below 50 degree (33.8 in average) . The follow-up period was over 1 year (40.8 months in average).

The range of motion was increased to an average of 94.0 (30-135) on the final follow-up. The average knee and function scores were 77.0 (26-100) and 67.3 (0-100) on the last follow-up. Twelve patients (44.4 % of 27 patients) were able to walk with no pain and limitation of distance.

Although the results were inferior to that of total knee replacement arthroplasty for preoperative flexible knees, total knee replacement arthroplasty for stiff or ankylosed knees had relatively good results with excellent pain relief and much improved range of motion. Thus, the total knee replacement arthroplasty may be a good surgical treatment for stiff or ankylosed knees.