Skin exposure issues

Abstract

Wound problems are a dreaded complication following TKA, and all measures should be taken to avoid them. Preventative measures include proper choice of the skin incision, gentle handling of the soft tissues, meticulous hemostasis, and wound closure without excessive tension. Should persistent wound drainage or soft tissue necrosis occur, early intervention is imperative, because delay risks deep infection and ultimate failure of the TKA. Cases associated with full-thickness soft tissue necrosis often require transfer of well-vascularized tissue, such as a medial gastrocnemius myocutaneous flap reconstruction. © 2005 Springer Science+Business Media, Inc. All rights reserved.