RELATIONSHIP OF BODY MASS INDEX TO EARLY COMPLICATIONS IN KNEE REPLACEMENT SURGERY.

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between body mass index and early complications following total knee joint replacement surgery.

Methods: 527 patients who underwent a primary knee replacement were included in this study. All these patients were subjected to a pre-operative assessment and then followed up at six weeks and one year following surgery. Any complication that occurred during this period was recorded. Complications were grouped into systemic and local, each group being subdivided into minor and major. Collected data were analysed by the SPSS version 12. Chi-square tests, t-test analysis, univariate logistic regression studies and multivariate analysis were performed.

Results: 64 patients (12,1%) were found to have an early complication following knee replacement surgery. 36 patients (6.8%) were found to have a major local complication. Overall BMI did not seem to influence the rate of complication. After stratification of patients per BMI, there appeared to be a weak correlation between BMI and early complications but this was not statistically significant. A stronger correlation was found between the surgeon and presence of complication.

Conclusions: BMI has a weak correlation to early complications following joint replacement surgery. The operating surgeon seems to have a stronger correlation to early complications as compared to BMI.