Severe Hypercalcemia After Joint Arthroscopy: Calcium Sulfate Beads to Blame

Abstract

Objective: To review the diagnosis and clinical course of a woman with severe, symptomatic hypercalcemia resulting from the use of calcium sulfate beads (CSBs) during orthopedic surgery for knee joint infection. Methods: Clinical and laboratory data are presented. Results: This is a unique case report of a woman that developed severe hypercalcemia 6 days after knee joint arthroscopy with CSB placement for knee prosthesis infection. Her laboratory data were unrevealing for alternate causes of severe hypercalcemia. Her symptoms and calcium level improved with intravenous fluids and 1 dose of calcitonin. Conclusion: This case demonstrates a rare but serious side effect of using calcium-based beads as fillers for orthopedic surgeries. It is important for patients and physicians to be aware that severe hypercalcemia can result from CSBs used during orthopedic procedures.