3 Knee Replacement Red Flags That Derail Recovery

After a total knee replacement (TKR/TKA), complications can derail recovery. In this video, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Georges Bounajem discusses the early red flags for extensor mechanism disruption (severe knee weakness), peroneal nerve palsy (foot drop), and arthrofibrosis (stiff knee/excessive scar tissue). Learn to recognize warning signs early, understand what's normal versus concerning, and when the surgeon should be notified. What you’ll learn: • Weak knee / can’t straight-leg raise → signs of extensor mechanism injury (quadriceps tendon tear, patellar tendon tear, or patella fracture) • Foot drop / foot numbness → signs of peroneal nerve palsy • Knee stiffness / range of motion stalling → signs of arthrofibrosis (excessive scar tissue) • Normal vs concerning timelines • Treatments the surgeon may discuss Chapters: 0:00 Intro 0:50 Knee Weakness - Extensor Mechanism Disruption 3:25 Ankle Weakness - Peroneal Nerve Palsy/Foot Drop 5:52 Knee Stiffness - Arthrofibrosis 8:47 Final Thoughts 🔹 Watch next: Knee Replacement & Knee Arthritis Playlist – Advice, Recovery, Treatments    • Knee Replacement Surgery & Knee Arthritis ...   Related topics: knee replacement warning signs, TKR tendon tear, knee replacement nerve damage, manipulation under anesthesia #kneereplacementrecovery #totalkneereplacement #kneesurgeryrecovery *This video is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Viewing this video does not establish a doctor–patient relationship. No individual watching this content should assume a professional relationship has been formed. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the emergency department, or call 911 immediately. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, medical knowledge evolves, and the content presented may become outdated or may not apply to your specific situation. We make no guarantees about the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the information provided. Individual responses to treatments and recovery can vary significantly. What works for one person may not be appropriate for another. Always follow your own provider’s recommendations. Any references to medications, products, or brands are for informational purposes only and do not constitute endorsements. All trademarks and brand names are the property of their respective owners. This video reflects the views and opinions of the speaker only and does not necessarily represent the views or positions of any institution, organization, or employer they may be affiliated with. We are not liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages resulting from the use or misuse of the information in this video.*