What are the risks and complications of joint replacement?

Joint replacement is a well-established procedure, but like any major surgery, it carries potential risks and complications.

Most patients recover without serious problems, but understanding the possible risks is an important part of deciding whether surgery is appropriate.

Possible complications include

• Infection
• Blood clots in the legs
• Pulmonary embolism
• Bleeding
• Wound healing problems
• Nerve or blood-vessel injury
• Joint stiffness
• Persistent pain
• Implant loosening
• Implant wear over time
• Fracture around the implant
• Joint instability or dislocation
• Anaesthesia-related complications

The exact risks depend on whether the patient is having knee, hip, or another joint replacement.

Factors that can increase risk

• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Poor circulation
• Heart or lung disease
• Previous surgery
• Weak bone quality
• Active infection
• Poor nutritional status

Many risks can be reduced through careful pre-operative assessment, infection prevention, blood clot prevention, early mobilisation, physiotherapy, and appropriate medical management.

Dr. Atul Mishra evaluates each patient’s individual risk factors before recommending joint replacement and discusses the expected benefits, alternatives, and possible complications before surgery.