Complications of total knee replacement.

The records and radiographs of 162 patients with 224 total knee replacements were reviewed for evidence of complications. Early complications included cardiovascular abnormalities, in particular deep vein thrombosis (3%), and limitation of motion requiring manipulation under anesthesia (7%). Late problems included patellofemoral arthritis (11%), heterotopic bone formation (10%), loosening (7%), deformity (4%), fracture (3%), and infection (2%). Patellofemoral pain and arthritis is the most common and often the most disabling complication.