The knee is one of the most common joints injured because it is a weight-bearing joint. However, injuries to the knee are often not caused by trauma; in some conditions, tight tendons may contribute to the misalignment of the knee and cause damage. For example, runner's knee is a condition in which a tight tendon contributes to knee pain, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. In severe cases, a tendon release may be necessary.
Infection
MedlinePlus states that an infection is a possible complication of a tendon release. An infection may occur because bacteria that lives on a patient's skin, surgical tools and the surgeon performing the release may enter the surgical wound created during the procedure. As bacteria enter the wound, they reproduce and infect the entire knee joint. Left untreated, the infection can spread from the knee joint to the rest of the body and cause fever, chills and night sweats. Signs of a local infection include excessive drainage, excessive pain and a foul odor from the wound site. In such cases, a patient should seek immediate emergency medical treatment so the appropriate antibiotics can be started to cure the infection.
Excessive Bleeding
In some cases, a surgeon may damage a blood vessel which may cause excessive bleeding, states Medline Plus. This complication is rare but may occur if a patient has a blood vessel in an abnormal area, or is taking blood thinners. Signs of excessive bleeding include swelling of the joint, drainage of blood from the wound site and excessive pain. A patient should immediately let his surgeon know if these symptoms occur so that the proper treatment can be started.
Scar Tissue
MedlinePlus states that a patient may experience the formation of scar tissue in the knee after tendon release surgery. This occurs because surgery damages soft tissues in the knee, leading to scarring. This can result in excessive pain and joint stiffness after surgery. To prevent or treat scarring in the knee, a patient should adhere to the physical therapy recommendations prescribed by the physician. Furthermore, a patient should continue a home exercise and flexibility program to prevent the formation of scar tissue and the associated complications.
