[Ischemia of the extremity as a rare complication of alloplastic joint replacement]

Two cases of extremity ischemia after alloplastic knee and hip joint replacement are presented. In both cases early operative intervention led to complete recovery. The mechanisms of iatrogenic vascular injury following arthroplastic operations on the hip and knee joint are demonstrated. In particular, the importance of preexisting vascular occlusive disease is stressed. Diagnostic procedures and implications for treatment are discussed.