What is a Revision Knee Replacement?

Knee replacement surgery is one of the most successful orthopedic surgeries. Removing osteoarthritic bone and cartilage and replacing it with metal and plastic components relieve knee pain and improve knee function in a short period of time. The overwhelming majority of knee replacements have no complications; however, sometimes for reasons that cannot be controlled by the patient or surgeon, there are problems with a knee replacement.

A revision knee replacement is a surgical procedure that removes knee replacement implants and replaces them with new ones. A revision knee replacement is usually a longer, more complicated surgery than a primary knee replacement, but the results are the same. Pain relief occurs and function is restored.

When is a Revision Knee Replacement Performed?

Possible reasons for a revision knee replacement are:

• A loose or worn implant
• A knee dislocation
• A knee or leg fracture
• An infection

These may be caused by an accident, injury, or age. Symptoms that may present include:

• Pain
• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Decreased range of motion
• Instability
• Redness, in the case of an infection

Smoking after a primary knee replacement increases the risk of infection. Not following a board-certified orthopedic specialist’s instructions increases the risk of injury.

Our Board-Certified and Fellowship Trained knee specialists are experts in knee revision procedures. The specialist obtains a complete medical and surgical history, performs a knee examination, and orders and analyzes X-rays and an MRI to evaluate your knee. Our specialists use the newest revision knee replacement surgical techniques and equipment to perform procedures.

If you are experiencing symptoms after having a knee replacement, contact our office to make an appointment with one of our knee specialistsas soon as possible.