A Systematic Review of Complication Rates in Elderly Age Patients Undergoing Knee Arthroplasty

Abstract

Knee arthroplasty is a commonly performed surgical procedure to treat knee osteoarthritis and has been shown to be effective in relieving pain and improving knee function in patients. However, like any surgical procedure, knee arthroplasty also carries a risk of complications. The risk of complications in elderly patients undergoing knee arthroplasty is generally higher than in younger patients. This study aimed to conduct a systematic review of the literature to assess complication rates in elderly patients undergoing knee arthroplasty. This research used a systematic literature review (SLR) method following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Data were collected by conducting a literature search in electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect. The collected data were then analyzed descriptively. The results showed that patients over 80 years of age had a higher incidence of morbidity and mortality compared with younger patients after undergoing knee arthroplasty, including revision surgery. Elderly patients had a higher rate of medical complications after knee arthroplasty, as well as longer hospital stays. The higher complication rate in elderly patients compared to younger patients can be explained by several main factors, including decreased physiological function, comorbidities, and limited medication options. The findings underscore the importance of thorough preoperative assessment and careful postoperative management in elderly patients undergoing knee arthroplasty.