Chronic Thigh Pain after Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Case Report

Background: Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) is a common surgical procedure aimed at alleviating pain and improving function in patients with end stage knee osteoarthritis. While the majority of patients experience positive outcomes, a subset of patients experience chronic post-operative pain, particularly in the thigh and knee, which can be very debilitating. Aim: This case report aims to discuss a case of chronic thigh pain following TKA whilst exploring possible underlying causes. Case Presentation: A 61-year-old male underwent an elective TKA on the left knee after prolonged postponement. The patient reported an immediate onset of sharp, burning thigh pain post-operatively. The pain persisted for over a year and remains present to this day. The patient’s quality of life and mobility are significantly impaired. Contributing factors to chronic pain after TKA include pre-existing chronic pain and intraoperative tourniquet use. Conclusion: Persistent lower extremity pain following TKA, while not common, is a significant complication. Preoperative screening for chronic pain risk factors and a multifaceted approach to risk alleviation are essential for improved outcomes. Further research is warranted to attain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms behind chronic pain after TKA, and to help develop targeted therapies for patients to help reduce the incidence.