Patterns and Associated Risk of Perioperative Use of Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis Undergoing Total Knee Replacement

Abstract

There was a low risk of infection and perioperative adverse events in patients with RA receiving anti-TNF therapy who were undergoing TKR. This raises the question whether it is necessary to stop anti-TNF for a long period prior to surgery. Given the possible risks associated with stopping anti-TNF, including worsening of disease, further study is needed to determine optimal perioperative use of anti-TNF among patients with RA undergoing TKR.