Fewer Complications Following Revision Hip and Knee Arthroplasty in Patients With Normal Vitamin D Levels

Abstract Background Surgeons and hospitals increasingly face penalty for complications and readmission following total joint arthroplasty; therefore, optimization of modifiable risk factors is paramount. Literature associates low vitamin D with risk of periprosthetic joint infection, and we hypothesized low vitamin D to be predictive of increased rate of complications and readmissions. Methods A retrospective review of 126 revision total joint arthroplasty patients between 2010 and 2014 was performed. Results Low vitamin D was not associated with risk of 30-day readmission but was found to be associated with an increased risk of 90-day complications as well as periprosthetic joint infection as the reason for revision surgery. Conclusion Preoperative vitamin D level should be considered a modifiable risk factor for complications following revision arthroplasty.