Understanding the risks of surgery : A guide for patients
As with all surgical procedures, there are risks to any surgery. We always prioritise minimising risk by thorough assessment, ensuring adequate planning and optimising the knee and body health prior to and after surgery.
Common Types of Knee Surgery
There are various types of knee surgeries, each with its own set of risks and benefits. Some common procedures include:
- Arthroscopy
- Partial Knee Replacement
- Total Knee Replacement
- ACL Reconstruction
- Meniscus Repair
- Kneecap stabilisation surgery
- Chondral and osteocondral surgery
General Risks of Knee Surgery
Though knee surgeries are generally safe and effective, they carry certain inherent risks. The following complications can arise in any type of knee surgery:
- Infection
- Blood clots in the leg (deep vein thrombosis, DVT) , or lung (pulmonary embolus, p.e.)
- Excessive bleeding
- Persistent pain, stiffness, loss of motion or mobility
- Anaesthesia complications
- Allergic reactions to medications or materials
Procedure-Specific Risks
Each type of knee surgery has its unique set of potential risks and complications. In this section, we’ll delve into the procedure-specific risks, such as:
- Damage to local nerves or vessels that can lead to sensation loss, paralysis, or in very rare cases loss of limb.
- local infection
- implant related issues such as failure of fixation, migration of implant, fracture of early loosening
- a repeat injury leading to retear of reconstructed or repaired structure
- non healing of repaired structure leading to further surgery of early degenerative change
- Instability or weakness of the knee joint
- skin changes and scar or thick (keloid) scar
- severe swelling post operation (compartment syndrome) needing surgery to release pressure
- Need for additional surgeries
Factors Influencing Risks
Certain factors can increase the likelihood of experiencing complications from knee surgery, including:
- Age
- Overall health
- Pre-existing medical conditions
- Tobacco or alcohol use
- Body weight and BMI
Minimizing Risks and Ensuring a Smooth Recovery
While some risks cannot be completely eliminated, many can be minimized through proper care and precautions. This section covers tips to reduce the likelihood of complications and ensure a successful recovery, such as:
- Selecting an experienced surgeon
- Following pre-operative instructions
- Participating in physiotherapy
- Adhering to post-operative care guidelines
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle
- Optimising nutritional status including vitamin D levels
We hope this guide has provided you with valuable information about the risks associated with knee surgery. By understanding these risks and taking necessary precautions, you can make informed decisions and work closely with your healthcare team to achieve the best possible outcomes. Remember, it’s important to discuss any concerns or questions with your surgeon to ensure you’re fully prepared for the procedure and its potential risks.