[Complications following total knee replacement].

Complications of total knee replacement were studied by following up 218 cases operated in our clinic. The average follow-up time ranged from 24 months to 101 months (mean 44.3 months). The three most serious types of complication were: significant loosening in 8 knees; deep infection in 5 knees; and fracture in 7 knees. Patellar dislocation and extension mechanism rupture were found in 13 knees, restriction of ROM and instability in 20 knees, and other complications in 7 knees. The incidence of complications in the rheumatic group tended to be greater than that in the osteoarthritic group. The incidence of complications was significantly higher in the severely deteriorated group than in the not severely deteriorated group; and the incidence of complications in the group treated in combination with Anametric, Total Condylar and GUEPAR prosthesis was also significantly higher than in the group treated with the Kinematic Knee Prosthesis. Though 32 reoperations were performed in 23 knees, functional prognosis was not good in most cases.