Final answer:
Elevating the joint line, especially in knee surgeries, can cause knee stiffness, pain, and limited movement. It may also lead to patellofemoral joint complications and vascular issues in the case of fractures.
Step-by-step explanation:
Elevating the joint line in orthopedic surgery, particularly knee replacement surgery, can lead to several complications. One such complication is altered knee mechanics, which can result in increased stress on the surrounding soft tissues and other joint components. This can lead to knee stiffness, pain, and a limited range of motion post-surgery. Additionally, altering the joint line can affect the patellar tracking and cause patellofemoral joint issues, such as anterior knee pain. In the context of fractures, like a distal humerus fracture, elevation of the joint can lead to vascular issues including compression of the artery leading to ischemia, which poses a serious risk of damage to the arm if not addressed promptly.