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Informed Consent for Autologous Hamstring Arthroplasty

I authorized Dr Wheeless to perform an Autologous Hamstring Resurfacing Arthroplasty on my ______________________ knee.
I understand that this involves the harvest of the two hamstring tendons (gracilis and semitendinosis), and the opposition of these tendons over the microfractured medial femoral condyle.  Microfracture is the doctors term for the creation of multiple drill holes over the medial femoral condyle.  This drill holes release marrow elements onto the overlying secured tendon and may promote better healing surface than drill holes alone.  I understand that the results of this hamstring resurfacing procedure will be more unpredictable than a standard joint replacement.

I further authorized Dr Wheeless to perform a plataris tendon harvest if additional tendon material is required to address cartilage damage to
my medial femoral condyle and/or to the femoral trochlea.
I understand that the decision to resurface the femoral trochlea will depend on the intra-operative findings and the surgeon's judgment.
After my surgery, I understand that I must be touch down weight bearing for at least 6 weeks, and I agree to use a CPM device for at least 8 hours per day.

I understand that I will be given a unique identification number and that this number and the information that I provide after the surgery will be used in a research study.  Patient confidentiality will be maintained.  I agree to answer questions about the progress of my knee during 3 month intervals for a period of two years in order to meet the requirements of the research study.  I will have the right to opt out of the research study at any time and will not have to give any reason.  If you decide to with drawl from the study, it will not affect the standard of care of the treatment that you receive.

Possible Surgical Complications:

 

  • Failure of Tendon Resurfacing Arthroplasty
  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Nerve damage

          These potential surgical complications may require additional treatment including additional hospitalization and additional surgery.  If the 
          tendon resurfacing arthroplasty fails, then a total joint replacement may be required.

Possible Medical Complications:

  • Deep vein thrombosis
  • Pulmonary embolism
  • Cardiopulmonary Complications
  • Neurological Complications

Possible Chronic Pain Complications:

  • Persistent / Recurrent pain
  • Recurrent symptoms including locking, swelling, instability
  • Persistent / recurrent joint crepitus
  • Altered sensation in the knee post-operatively


Original Text by Clifford R. Wheeless, III, MD.

Last updated by Clifford R. Wheeless, III, MD on Saturday, November 28, 2009 6:24 pm