Orthopedic Surgeon Incorrectly Positions Knee Replacement

Case Overview

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.

Questions to the Orthopedic Surgery expert and their responses

How frequently do you perform Total Knee Replacement Surgeries?

I perform about 200 knee replacement surgeries a year.

Are you familiar with the complications a TKR can present?

I am familiar with knee replacement complications.

Is it common for a misaligned femoral component after TKR?

A malpositioned femoral component is a well described cause for pain and loss of motion in a poorly functioning knee replacement.

About the expert

This board-certified orthopaedic surgeon completed his M.D. at a top medical university, and completed his residency and fellowship at prestigious university medical centers. This expert is a member of numerous orthopaedic associations, and is a well published and reputable orthopaedic surgeon. He currently serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at a top university medical center.