Knee replacement surgery, or total knee arthroplasty [TKA], is common worldwide. In fact, more than 790,000 people undergo this type of surgery every year in the U.S. It is ideal for patients with end-stage osteoarthritis or inflammatory arthritis of the knee.
While the procedure is quite common and is widely considered safe and effective, certain risks and complications may arise, especially if it was not done properly or substandard materials were used. This is why people who become victims often file the Zimmer knee replacement lawsuit. In this blog post, we want to discuss these risks and complications. So, without wasting more time, let’s delve into them.
- Infections
Infection is one of the common risks and complications of knee replacement surgery. Joint prosthesis surgery can lead to infection, affecting the incision and joint. Symptoms include redness, swelling, pain, fever, and discharge. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, but severe cases may require additional surgeries.
- Blood clots
After surgery, there’s a chance of blood clots like deep vein thrombosis (DVT). A pulmonary embolism (PE) could occur if a clot spreads through the bloodstream and obstructs the lungs. This could endanger life.
During or after surgery, blood clots can happen, but they are more likely to occur following orthopedic procedures like knee replacements.
It should be noted that DVT and PE are still comparatively uncommon side effects occurring in 0.6-3.0% of knee replacement patients. Symptoms include swelling, redness, and pain in the leg. A blood thinner will be prescribed by your doctor after the procedure to lower the risk of a blood clot. A patient may also wear compression stockings to reduce swelling.
- Wound and bleeding
A surgeon may need to drain fluid from a wound to help it heal. Complications may include slow healing, bleeding, blood thinners, or skin grafts. However, wound complications are uncommon, with only a 7% rate after total knee replacement. Monitoring the wound and informing the doctor is crucial. A balanced diet, including protein, fruit, and vegetables, can help the wound heal better afterward.
- Damage to the nerve
Because the nerves around the knee joint are so close together, there is a risk of nerve injury during knee replacement surgery. This is uncommon, but it can cause the limb to become numb, tingly, or even weak. Symptoms of nerve damage may include tingling, numbness, or difficulty moving the foot or leg.
Nerve function can often get better with time. In extreme situations, more surgical intervention may be required. However, physical therapy and nerve pain medicines may help manage these symptoms.
- Allergic reaction to implant materials
The knee joint may become inflamed in certain people due to an allergy or intolerance to metals utilized in the knee implant. Symptoms indicating that the patient is allergic to the implant materials include swelling, redness around the implant area, and joint pain. Patients with a history of metal sensitivities should talk to their surgeon about substitute materials.
- Persistent pain
Knee replacement surgery can cause chronic pain, which may persist even after the procedure. Persistent pain is characterized by ongoing pain that does not improve with time or even after the patient has gone through physical therapy. Management involves medication, lifestyle adjustments, or physical therapy, and evaluating the source of pain.
