Subcutaneous thigh fat necrosis as a result of tourniquet control during total knee arthroplasty.
The use of a pneumatic tourniquet in total knee arthroplasty has been linked to complications caused by local tissue hypoxia. Fat necrosis is a rare condition that presents as an ill-defined subcutaneous lesion. The clinical features resemble that of a lipoma but histological appearance is characteristic. Ultrasound imaging is helpful in establishing the diagnosis both by sonographic appearance as well as in directing a biopsy if necessary. We present a case of encapsulated fat necrosis caused by the use of a pneumatic tourniquet during total knee arthroplasty.
Tamvakopoulos
George S
GS
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Norfolk & Norwich University Hospital, Norwich, UK. gst@doctors.net.uk
Toms
Andoni P
AP
Glasgow
Malcolm
M
D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D019645:Arthroplasty, Replacement, Knee; D005218:Fat Necrosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D020370:Osteoarthritis, Knee / Q000601:surgery; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D013848:Thigh; D014111:Tourniquets / Q000009:adverse effects*; D014463:Ultrasonography