Risks and complications

As a general rule, every operation is associated with general and specific risks. The surgical team always strives to provide the best treatment possible and to avoid any complication. An optimal general health status helps to minimise the risks.

General risks include:

• Leg vein thrombosis (occlusion of a vessel by a blood clot)
• Pulmonary embolism (partial or total occlusion of a lung vessel by a blood clot)
• Infections
• In rare cases, injuries of blood vessels or nerves

The risk of leg vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism is reduced by the administration of blood thinning drugs (e.g. heparin).

As a matter of principle, in case of new pain in the area of operation, new swellings, wound-healing problems, oozing of liquid from the scar or unexplained fever, a medical specialist or the hospital should be visited immediately.