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product_liability knee_replacementIn both total and partial knee replacement surgeries, artificial components run the risk of loosening or wearing out. The risk of this complication depends on a number of factors, including how well the surgery is done, how active the patient is, the sturdiness of the bones, the patient''s weight and the design of the prosthesis. For the most part, however, the parts will remain sturdy and the benefits will be seen for at least 10 years after surgery. After this time, repeat surgery may be necessary.
During the surgery, there is a possible risk of bleeding, blood clot formation and damage to nerves and blood vessels. Nerve damage may cause temporary numbness, which usually lasts from six to 12 months. In the most severe cases, this damage can result in loss of limb or even loss of life. While extremely rare, this risk should be taken into consideration while deciding about knee replacement surgery.
The most common complication of knee replacement surgery is blood clots in the veins in the leg. While relatively minor, these blood clots can become serious if they dislodge from the leg veins and travel to the lungs. This condition is called a pulmonary embolism and it can result in death. In order to prevent blood clots from occurring after surgery, doctors will prescribe an anticoagulant, such as warfarin (Coumadin) or Lovenox. In addition to blood thinning prescriptions, post-surgery patients can also use compressive calf pumps and leg exercises to keep the blood circulating through the veins. Even with precautions, these complications can still occur after knee replacement surgery.
The most serious complication from knee replacement surgery is infection. This complication affects roughly 0.5 percent of all patients. If the site of the wound is not kept free of bacteria, it is possible for infection to develop. Antibiotics prescribed before, during and after surgery can protect against infection.
Infection in the weeks after knee replacement surgery is most common in people with rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes. If there is an infection in any other part of the body at the time, risk of infection in the surgical site increases. Risk of infection isn''t a temporary concern for people who have undergone knee replacement surgery. It is a complication that can occur even years after surgery if another part of the body acquires an infection. An infected wound or gall bladder can emit bacteria into the bloodstream, which can infect the knee. Regular dental work can also increase risk of infection years after surgery. Taking antibiotics before visiting the dentist can reduce this risk.
Other complications from knee replacement surgery include malformation, loss of motion due to scar tissue formation, allergic reactions to the metal parts of the prosthesis, complications related to anesthesia and fat embolisms. Complications from blood transfusions may occur in patients who lose a lot of blood during total knee replacement surgery.