Nerve Injuries in Total Knee Arthroplasty
Daniel Cohen1, David Backstein1
1Adult Lower Extremity Reconstruction Unit, Mount Sinai Hospital, Gluskin Granovsky Division of Orthopaedics, University of Toronto, 600 University Avenue, #476D, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X5, Canada.
The Orthopedic Clinics of North America
|April 2, 2022
Summary
Nerve injury following total knee arthroplasty is rare, occurring in 0.12%-0.4% of primary procedures. Most patients experience some degree of recovery from nerve damage, though it can be temporary or permanent.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Neurology
Background:
- Nerve injury is a recognized complication of total knee arthroplasty (TKA).
- Injuries can result in temporary or permanent motor and sensory dysfunction.
- The incidence of nerve injury during primary TKA is low, estimated between 0.12% and 0.4%.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the incidence, presentation, and management of nerve injury after TKA.
- To discuss diagnostic modalities and expected recovery outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of nerve injury complications in TKA.
- Analysis of diagnostic tools including ultrasound, MRI, and nerve conduction studies.
- Discussion of treatment strategies focusing on dressing removal and knee flexion.
Main Results:
- Nerve injury presents with varying degrees of motor and sensory deficits.
- Diagnostic imaging and electrophysiological studies are crucial for assessment.
- Most patients achieve at least partial recovery, contingent on injury severity.
Conclusions:
- While nerve injury is a potential complication of TKA, its incidence is low.
- Prompt diagnosis and appropriate management, including physical therapy, are essential for optimizing patient recovery.
- Prognosis for recovery is generally favorable, with most patients regaining some function.
