Complications with Total Joint Replacement Surgery
Although joint replacement surgery is considered safe, any surgical procedure carries inherent risk. Some of these risks include: Infection: Like all surgery, joint replacement carries the risk of infection. If this occurs, it can be a serious complication and may even necessitate removal of the implant. There are two types of infection associated with joint replacement: Early Infection: Infection may occur in the days or weeks following the surgery. Late infection: Infection may occur years down the road. To reduce the risk of infection once you have a joint replacement, you may be told to take antibiotics any time you undergo an invasive procedure, such as dental work or colonoscopy. Blood Clots: As with any surgery, there is the risk of developing a blood clot, although the use of blood-thinning medication and compression stockings helps minimize this risk. Stiffness: Stiffness can be the result of scar tissue buildup, which is why it is so important to begin activity immediately and adhere to a physical therapy program. Implant Loosening or Failure: Though they are designed to last much longer than they used to, over time implants can loosen or wear out. This may require revision surgery (replacement of the implant). Be assured that most complications that may arise after some joint replacement surgeries can be successfully treated.