This is called a pulmonary embolism. Most surgeons take preventing DVT very seriously. Infection Infection can be a very serious complication following an artificial joint. Some infections may show up very early- before you leave the hospital. Others may not become apparent for months, or even years, after the operation.
Infection can spread into the artifical joint from other infected areas.
Your surgeon may want to make sure that you take antibiotics when you have dental work, or surgical procedures on your bladder and colon to reduce the risk of spreading germs to the joint. In some cases, the ability to bend the knee does not return to normal after an artificial knee replacement. Other orthopedic surgeons rely on physical therapy beginning immediately after the surgery to regain the motion. It is not clear which is the best approach. Both approaches have benefits and risks, and the choice is usually made by the surgeon based on his experience and preferences.