Orthopedic Surgeon Incorrectly Positions Knee Replacement

This case takes place in North Carolina and involves a patient who underwent a total knee replacement in order to treat chronic arthritis. Following the procedure, the patient developed significant scarring, and post-surgical physical therapy was ineffective. Some time after the initial operation, another surgeon performed a procedure on the knee in an attempt to address the scarring. The patient reported no relief from the procedure, ultimately undergoing another knee replacement. The surgeon who performed this corrective procedure diagnosed the patient with a failed knee replacement because of several misaligned components of the replacement.

Question(s) For Expert Witness

1. How frequently do you perform Total Knee Replacement Surgeries?

2. Are you familiar with the complications a TKR can present?

3. Is it common for a misaligned femoral component after TKR?

Expert Witness Response E-008978

I perform about 200 knee replacement surgeries a year. I am familiar with knee replacement complications. There are a number of techniques and tools that are utilized intra op to appropriately align/position/size the femoral component. A malpositioned femoral component is a well described cause for pain and loss of motion in a poorly functioning knee replacement. I specialize in joint replacement surgery of the hip and knee. My practice is that of a tertiary care academic medical center. I routinely perform knee replacement surgery as well as revision (redo) knee replacements for knee replacements that were performed elsewhere and are functioning poorly.