Abstract
INTRODUCTION: We present the case of a successful conversion of a KineSpring joint unloading system to a total knee replacement. This is, to the best of our knowledge, the so far longest surviving implant in Germany that has been successfully converted. CASE REPORT: The patient is a 75-year-old woman who presented to clinic with problems of her left knee. She had a KineSpring joint unloading system implanted in March 2011 for severe medial osteoarthritis of her left knee that was unresponsive to maximal conservative treatment. After nearly 7 pain-free years, we successfully converted the KineSpring joint unloading system into a total knee replacement (Vega, Aesculap, Germany). CONCLUSION: The KineSpring joint unloading system is possible treatment option for younger patients with mild-to-moderate osteoarthritis of the knee reluctant to total knee replacement, without compromising further surgical options.