Potential Complications

As with all surgeries, total joint replacement surgeries involve some elements of risk, including potential complications.

These complications include:

  • Blood clots around the incisions in the hip or leg;
  • Loss of feeling or sensation near the incision; 
  • Damage to the nerves or blood vessels in the location.

Infections near the incision are treated with drugs, but deep infections in the actual new joint may require replacing the new joint. Infections occur in less than 2% of joint replacement patients.

Other complications that are rare include heart attack and stroke. Pre-existing and chronic medical conditions may contribute to any complications that develop.