Many Idaho military veterans have benefitted from knee replacement surgeries to alleviate pain from arthritis or complex traumatic injuries to the area from combat. Artificial knees usually provide a new lease on life for patients, as they are better able to move and get on with life. However, sometimes the surgeries fail, and patients are left with more pain and decreased mobility.
What can go wrong during knee replacement surgery?
Many surgical errors can occur during joint replacement. Knee pain often results from a combination of factors. These include loosening of the joint, weakening of the muscles surrounding the knee, and failing to preplan the knee position before starting surgery. The factors involved in positioning are also difficult to accomplish correctly.
Manual testing of ligament stability at the time of surgery is usually not sufficient to get the right balance in total knee replacement. A more accurate way of aligning knee replacements involves three-dimensional computerized technology based on CT scans of the patient’s knee. This involves using a robotic arm that can accurately make cuts for metal implants that fit tightly so the patient’s bone grows into the implant, eliminating the need for surgical cement and leaving the kneecap untouched. Another significant problem occurs when patients return home without a comprehensive rehab program to strengthen the knee and ensure they can move sufficiently.
Doctors have a duty to provide the best possible care
Surgical errors are a form of medical malpractice. When patients consult VA doctors and surgeons, they expect a timely resolution of their physical issues. Legal duty of care occurs when a physician agrees to treat patients. Medical personnel are liable for medical malpractice when they fail to provide duty of care. Improperly performing knee replacement surgery due to implant misalignment and similar errors can constitute malpractice.
If you feel that your doctor may have botched your implant surgery or that you may not have been prescribed a comprehensive course of physical therapy for your rehabilitation, you may have grounds for a malpractice claim. A successful claim can help pay for new surgery and additional medical expenses.