Featured Review: Tourniquet in knee replacement surgery

New Cochrane Systematic Review shows that knee replacement surgery using a tourniquet increases the risk of serious complications, and causes additional pain after surgeryWhat are the benefits and risks of using a tourniquet in knee replacement surgery?Senior author Mr Peter Wall, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon from Warwick Clinical Trials Unit and University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, summarized:The evidence indicates that knee replacement surgery performed with a tourniquet increases the risk of serious complications needing additional healthcare, many of which might be avoided if a tourniquet is not used. Most people do very well after knee replacement, but like any major surgery, there are risks and use of a tourniquet may exacerbate these.Why is this question important?Knee replacement is a common operation that involves replacing a damaged, worn, or diseased knee with an artificial joint made of metal and plastic. Most surgeons prefer to carry out knee replacement surgery with the aid of a tourniquet ‐ a tight band placed around the thigh that restricts blood flow to the knee. Potential benefits of using a tourniquet include limiting blood loss during surgery and making it easier to conduct the operation. However, a tourniquet may increase the risk of pain and complications for patients after surgery. How did the authors identify and evaluate the evidence?First, they searched for relevant, robust studies in the medical literature. They then compar...
Source: Cochrane News and Events - Category: Information Technology Authors: Source Type: news