Characteristics and Complications of Super-Obese Patients Who Underwent Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Abstract

Preoperative demographic characteristics, comorbidities, length of stay and surgery, and postoperative complications were compared between super-obese (n=1042) and nonobese (n=19,929) patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty. Super-obese patients were younger, were predominantly women, had an increased incidence of comorbid conditions such as diabetes and hypertension as well as a high rate of superficial and deep wound infections, and had a longer mean length of stay and operative time. Although super-obese patients have unique demographic characteristics and increased postoperative complications and length of stay, they may still benefit from total knee arthroplasty. Surgeons should note their high incidence of infections. [Orthopedics. 2016; 39(4):e800-e805.].