Total Knee Arthroplasty in a Diagnosed Case of Deep Vein Thrombosis - Our Experience and Review of Literature

Introduction: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and its associated complication, pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) remains a challenge for orthopedic surgeons. There are wide ranges of predisposing factors which are both patient specific as well as procedure associated, responsible for DVT. PTE is a well-known fatal complication of DVT which may be life-threatening. Medical management and early mobilization are necessary for the management of DVT. Fatal PTE can be prevented by implantation of inferior vena cava (IVC) filter in at risk patients.

Case report: We are presenting a rare case report of 75-year-old female with severe osteoarthritis of the left knee with DVT of the left lower limb in which TKA was done in a prediagnosed case of DVT. IVC filter placement was done before TKA for prevention of fatal PTE, and medical management was done for DVT.

Conclusion: Prevention of fatal thromboembolism is of prime importance in the management of DVT. This can be achieved by implanting IVC filter. TKA is necessary for early pain free mobilization of the patient, which prevents progression of DVT and early recovery. IVC filter placement prevents fatal thromboembolism. Hence, treatment of both osteoarthritis of knee by TKA and DVT can be done simultaneously.