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First, I’d like to wish everyone a Happy New Year!
As we head into 2013, my mind is beginning to worry a little bit about the knee replacement surgery my dad has decided to go ahead and have. While I was in large favor of this at first, the more I learn, the more nervous I become.
What I’ve heard recently are many stories of people who have had knee replacements who are near my dad’s age, but the pain afterward is quite extraordinary. I’ve even spoken to several people who had Chicago knee replacements and then were in the hospital for a week or more because of the pain they were experiencing.
Knee replacement surgery carries the same risk as any other procedures, including excessive bleeding as well as problem with anesthesia and risk of infection. These are relatively uncommon in Chicago knee replacements, but are a risk.
However, these aren’t what are causing me the anxiety around my dad’s knee replacement surgery. It’s the other complications that can come following a knee replacement surgery. Here are a few things I’ve been reading about:
Chicago Knee Replacement Surgery Complications
Kneecap Problems – This is one of the major problems I’ve heard about. Apparently after a knee replacement surgery, there can be severe complications with the knee caps. This is, in part, due to the excessive strain that is put on a knee cap during just normal use. When you introduce a replacement knee joint, it can be difficult to get the knee cap to continue functioning well with these replacement parts.
Alignment Problems – According to what I’ve read, one of the challenges brought with a knee replacement, is getting the replacement implants properly aligned. While I couldn’t find a lot of information on this, what I understand the alignment to be associated with is the bone being removed evenly.
These are just a couple of knee replacement complications, I’m sure. Do you know anything more about either of these, especially the knee replacement alignment?
I’m also curious for any suggestions on Chicago knee replacement surgeons who are willing to educate their patients. I want to be sure my dad’s knee replacement surgery is a success and that we are fully educated before he ever gets put under.
Happy New Year, I hope it’s a good one for you.
Dad's Knee Replacement 