A recent study by Indian researchers has revealed that individuals with diabetes are at a significantly higher risk of complications following total knee arthroplasty (TKA), commonly known as knee replacement surgery. Conducted by teams from Vardhman Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital in New Delhi, with input from Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals and Fortis C-Doc Hospital, the study highlights how diabetes can lead to both short- and long-term health challenges after surgery.
The study found that more than 50% of people with diabetes also suffer from arthropathy conditions that affect joints which makes them likely candidates for hip or knee replacement surgeries in the future. However, the presence of diabetes dramatically increases the risk of post-operative complications such as periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT, a type of blood clot, can further escalate to pulmonary embolism, a serious condition involving blockage in lung arteries. These complications increase not only recovery time but also morbidity and mortality rates.
Insulin use and sugar control impact outcomes
The risks are even greater among insulin-treated diabetics. The study reports that these patients experience a 60% higher incidence of perioperative adverse events. Individuals with poor glycemic control around the time of surgery show worsened outcomes, including higher rates of infection, readmission, and impaired physical function. Specifically, diabetic patients undergoing TKA face a 43% higher risk of developing joint infections and are 45% more likely to suffer from blood clots. Readmission rates among diabetic patients are also 28% higher than those without the condition.
The research team emphasized the need for more in-depth studies to create standardized definitions for glycemic control and to better understand the mechanisms behind these elevated risks. Establishing preoperative guidelines for managing diabetic patients could significantly improve surgical outcomes and reduce complications after TKA. This new data underscores the importance of tight blood sugar management and personalized care plans for diabetic patients considering or preparing for joint replacement surgery.
