AST Surgical Technologist Practice Exam

What postoperative complication is associated with total hip arthroplasty?

1. Infection

2. Pulmonary embolism

3. Hip dislocation

4. Deep vein thrombosis

The correct answer is: Pulmonary embolism

Total hip arthroplasty, commonly known as hip replacement surgery, carries the risk of several postoperative complications, one of which is pulmonary embolism (PE). PE is a serious condition that arises when a blood clot, often formed in the deep veins of the legs (deep vein thrombosis), travels to the lungs, blocking a pulmonary artery. During and after hip surgery, patients are at increased risk of developing blood clots due to factors such as immobility, surgical trauma, and the patient's overall health status. This heightened risk necessitates careful monitoring and preventive measures postoperatively, including anticoagulation therapy and encouraging early mobilization. While infections, hip dislocation, and deep vein thrombosis are indeed potential complications of total hip arthroplasty, the choice of pulmonary embolism specifically highlights a critical concern that can arise from venous thromboembolism, a consequence that is particularly prominent in the context of major orthopedic surgeries. This makes pulmonary embolism a noteworthy postoperative complication that surgical technologists should be aware of when caring for patients following hip replacements.