Unfortunately, no surgical procedure has a 100% success rate. Complications are an inevitable part of the surgery that all patients should be aware of. This does not mean that you WILL develop a complication. Below are some of the complications observed in my field:
Common Complications
Superficial infection Hematoma Joint stiffness, temporary Nerve injury, temporary Permanent numbness around incision Need for additional (unplanned) surgery Incomplete resolution of all pain Wound dehiscence/Skin slough
Unusual Complications
Deep infection Recurrent infection Malunion (bony deformity) Incomplete correction of deformity or leg length discrepancy Recurrence of the condition Nonunion (bone does not heal) Delayed bone healing
Avascular necrosis (bone loses blood supply) Joint deformity Joint stiffness, permanent Fracture of bone at pin site or other site (broken bone) Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) (blood clot) Chronic pain Neuroma Failure of the procedure Unhappiness with the procedure New pain in other regions Need for revision surgery Need for fusion Cosmetic deformity Need for ambulatory aids Shoe modifications Change in activities of daily living
Rare Complications
Nerve injury, permanent Artery injury Need for blood transfusion Compartment syndrome (excessive swelling in leg that could lead to permanent loss of function) Inability to return to work Fat embolism Amputation Death
