Abstract
It is important that to give to consideration the optimal timing and order when performing multiple joint arthroplasties of lower extremities in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. We report our experience with 30 patients treated over a 15 year period.
Their age at the time of first operation ranged from 32-72 years (average 55.3 years). The duration of their rheumatoid disease ranged from 9-49 years (average 22 years). We have followed the patients for 1-12 years (average 5.3 years).
In patients with multiple joint destructive in the lower extremities, the first therapy to be performed should be correction of painful toe deformities. Secondary the most painful joint was operated on.
Patients requiring multiple joint arthroplasties during one admission, or patients with cervical or lumbar spondilotic disturbance, and with joint destruction of upper extremities valued their total functional requirements and, decided their goal of therapy and in which order this should be achieved. When this was done, therapy. Produced good results.
