To Err is Human... Alexander Pope Any surgical intervention has potential risks and
complications. This book is designed as a reference tool and a roadmap for the sports medicine
orthopedist to minimize the complications in knee and shoulder surgery. Some complications are
avoidable some are not. By understanding the functional anatomy at risk proper surgical setup
proper equipment and proper patient selection a preventative approach to complications can be
instituted. The authors of these chapters represent leaders in orthopedic sports medicine and
have provided novel methods for dealing with intraoperative complications and si- ations that
can occur in the midst of a routine arthroscopic reconstruction. In d- cussing these issues we
hope to raise the surgeon's awareness of potential complications and to provide wisdom and
advice to properly avoid and treat these problems should they arise. How one deals with
complications truly tests the mettle of the surgeon. Keeping one's cool in the midst of an
intraoperative complication will be facilitated by h- ing an algorithmic approach. We hope that
this book will improve your outcome should these problems occur. Some complications are
unavoidable. Arthro brosis or stiffness may take place in the best of hands. Infection may
surface postoperatively in the most sterile OR. We provide you with the background to confront
these challenges. A list of ten Pearls are offered at the beginning of most chapters as a quick
reference card.
