Wound complications in total knee arthroplasty.

Abstract

Wound problems are a dreaded complication following TKA and ideally are avoided. Preventative measures include proper choice of the skin incision, gentle handling of the soft tissues, meticulous hemostasis, and wound closure without excessive tension. Should persistent wound drainage or soft-tissue necrosis occur, early intervention is imperative as delay risks deep infection and failure of the TKA. Cases associated with full-thickness soft-tissue necrosis often require transfer of well-vascularized tissue such as a medial gastrocnemius myocutaneous flap reconstruction.