Vascular complication following total hip replacement - A nightmare for Arthroplasty surgeon

Abstract

Iatrogenic vascular injuries during total hip arthroplasty (THA) are rare but have serious consequences. The early diagnosis of vascular injuries is often difficult as the signs and symptoms are not specific. The average frequency is between 0.16% and 0.25%. Various mechanisms described in literature for causing iatrogenic vascular insult are injuries by retractors, mechanical stress, laceration, thrombotic occlusion and formation of false aneurysm. Such complications better be prevented or efficiently treated by thorough preoperative evaluation and vigilant post-operative examination. A case of common femoral artery thrombosis following THA is presented with emphasis on difficult aspect of diagnosis and management.

Erosion of Common Femoral Artery 3 Years After Total Hip Arthroplasty in a Patient with Marfan Syndrome

“…This type of vascular complication can result in substantial morbidity and mortality, and diagnosing and treating causes of ischemia promptly is necessary for the survival and function of limbs [1][2][3] . Unfortunately, diagnosis can be challenging.…”

“…V ascular injury is a rare complication of hip arthroplasties that can reduce limb survival and function, increase mortality, and require specialist intervention [1][2][3] . Vascular injuries are frequently caused by direct injury to the vessels and most present during or shortly after surgery 4,5 .…”