Nerve Injuries in Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Abstract

Nerve injury is one of the potential complications of total knee arthroplasty. The extent of the injury includes motor and sensory dysfunction, either temporary or permanent. Although the consequences of nerve injury may be dramatic, the probability of occurrence during the course of primary knee arthroplasty is low, around 0.12% to 0.4%. Local dressing removal and knee flexion are imperative, and the initial investigations include ultrasound or MRI and nerve conduction studies. The extent of recovery depends on the type and severity of the initial nerve palsy; however, most patients are expected to have at least a partial recovery.