Definition
TEP is the abbreviation for total endoprosthesis and describes a complete joint replacement. In the case of the knee this means that both the joint surface of the femur and the joint surface of the tibia, which among other things form the knee joint, are replaced by a prosthesis. A knee TEP is performed when the complaints caused by damage to the knee joint due to osteoarthritis cannot be contained with a non-surgical therapy and the quality of life of the affected person is thus severely restricted. After the operation, temporary pain is normal, but can be triggered by various causes over a longer period of time.
Causes of pain
The pain after a knee TEP can have different causes. It is normal if pain persists for a certain period of time after surgery. In most cases, this can then be treated by adequate pain and physiotherapy.
However, if the pain persists, other causes may be underlying. For example, surrounding structures such as nerves or tendons damaged during the operation can cause the pain. If the pain is not felt in the affected knee joint but in the leg, it can also be a vascular occlusion, i.e. a thrombosis.
Since the bone also has to be adapted when the prosthesis is fitted, accidental fractures of the bone (thigh or lower leg bone) may occur, which are not noticeable during the operation. Especially older patients with bone loss (osteoporosis) may suffer bone fractures around the prosthesis even after the prosthesis has been inserted. This is usually the case when the knee is under heavy strain, such as when tripping or falling.
Furthermore, a malposition, incorrect positioning, instability or loosening of the new joint could cause pain after the operation. Bacterial infection of the new joint and surrounding structures should also be detected and treated early. Too early and excessive stress on the new knee joint after surgery can also cause pain.
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