Knee joint replacement surgery is a major surgical procedure that can be very successful in relieving pain and improving function. However, like any surgery, there are some risks associated with knee joint replacement surgery.
The risks of knee joint replacement surgery are relatively low. However, it is important to be aware of the risks before you decide to have the surgery.
Some of the most common risks of knee joint replacement surgery include:
- Infection: There is a small risk of infection after knee joint replacement surgery. Your doctor will give you antibiotics to help prevent infection.
- Blood clots: There is a small risk of blood clots after knee joint replacement surgery. Your doctor will give you anticoagulants to help prevent blood clots.
- Nerve damage: There is a small risk of nerve damage after knee joint replacement surgery. This can cause numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg.
- Allergic reaction: There is a small risk of an allergic reaction to the artificial joint.
- Loosening of the artificial joint: Over time, the artificial joint may loosen. This can cause pain and instability in the knee.
- Wearing of the artificial joint: Over time, the artificial joint may wear out. This may require revision surgery to replace the artificial joint.
It is important to talk to your doctor about the risks of knee joint replacement surgery before you decide to have the surgery. Your doctor can help you assess your individual risk factors and discuss the benefits and risks of surgery with you.
Here are some questions you should ask your doctor about the safety of knee joint replacement surgery:
- What are the risks of knee joint replacement surgery?
- How can I reduce my risk of complications?
- What is the recovery process like after knee joint replacement surgery?
- How long will the artificial joint last?
If you are considering knee joint replacement surgery, it is important to weigh the risks and benefits carefully. With careful planning and preparation, most people who have knee joint replacement surgery are able to enjoy a significant improvement in their quality of life.