What are the signs of infection after knee replacement surgery?
Daniel Foster Signs and symptoms of an infected joint replacement include:
- Increased pain or stiffness in a previously well-functioning joint.
- Swelling.
- Warmth and redness around the wound.
- Wound drainage.
- Fevers, chills and night sweats.
- Fatigue.
What is the risk of infection after knee replacement surgery?
One of the most concerning complications associated with a knee replacement is an infection. Infection after knee replacement surgery is rare. In the first 2 years after surgery, the chance of developing an infection is estimated at 1.5%. After 2 years, the chance of infection goes down to about 0.5%.
How do I know if I have an infection in my knee?
Knee infection symptoms
- inability to move your knee due to pain or stiffness.
- chills and nausea.
- fever that lasts for more than 24 hours.
- swelling around your knee.
- redness or irritation at your knee.
How does a knee replacement become infected?
A knee replacement infection may develop in the wound after surgery. It may also occur around the artificial implant that is used to replace the knee joint. Harmful bacteria entering the wound usually cause the infection. A knee replacement infection can occur any time after surgery.
What complications can occur after knee replacement?
Possible knee replacement surgery complications
- Infection.
- Longer-term knee stiffness.
- Persistent knee pain.
- Implant failure.
- Nerve or blood vessel damage.
- Blood clots.
- Make preparing for knee surgery a priority.
- Follow your recovery plan.
How long does it take for a knee infection to heal?
Antibiotic treatment might take 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the type of bacterial infection you have and your overall medical condition. Your doctor might drain the fluid around the joint. This helps reduce pressure and eliminate harmful bacteria.
How do you treat an infected knee replacement?
Deep infections diagnosed within a few days or weeks can be cured with a procedure called debridement. The surgeon surgically removes the infected tissues. The knee implant is completely cleaned and certain parts of it are replaced. For about 6 weeks after, intravenous (IV) antibiotics are administered.
