Knee skin temperature following uncomplicated total knee replacement

This prospective study aimed to establish the pattern of knee skin temperature following uncomplicated primary total knee replacement. Thirty-two patients were included. The skin temperature of operated and contralateral knees was measured preoperatively and daily during the first 6 weeks postoperatively. Measurements were also taken at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months following surgery. The difference in temperature between the two knees had a mean value of +2.9 degrees C at 7 days. This mean value decreased to + 1.6 degrees C at 6 weeks, + 1.3 degrees C at 3 months, +0.9 degrees C at 6 months +0.3 degrees C at 12 months and +0.0 degrees C at 24 months. Following uncomplicated total knee replacement, the operated knee skin temperature increases compared to the contralateral knee. The difference decreases gradually but remains statistically significant up to at least 6 months following surgery. In the absence of other features of infection, local knee warmth should not cause concern. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.