Total knee replacement surgery or arthroplasty is one of the most successful orthopedic procedures performed today. A successful operation can provide substantial relief from pain and highly improved knee function, allowing the patient to return to normal activities. Over 600,000 total knee replacements are performed each year in the United States. Yet, some patients may need a revision knee replacement for several reasons. Over 22,000 revision knee replacements are performed each year.
Here are some FAQs about revision knee replacement surgery.
Why Would I Need a Revision Knee Replacement?
Patients who need revision surgery experience a loosening of the knee prosthesis, a dislocated patella, a fracture around the knee joint, or significant wear-and-tear to their prosthetic implant. An infected knee joint can also lead to a revision knee replacement. Signs of needing revision knee replacement include persistent generalized or localized pain, swelling, and a decline in knee function.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Revision knee replacement surgery involves the removal of the failed implant and replacing it with a new implant. Either an implant is replaced or the entire prosthesis is replaced. The orthopedic surgeon may also perform a bone graft if there are signs of bone deterioration as a result of the implant failure.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Recovery differs from person to person, but generally, if the orthopedic surgeon has to perform a bone graft along with revision surgery, recovery may take longer. Physical therapy typically begins the day after the surgery and continues for about three months. It may take up to 12 months to recover from knee revision surgery.
What Can I Expect After Revision Surgery?
Patients can expect excellent results from knee revision surgery. Artificial implants used in revision surgery are designed to allow for substantial pain relief and excellent functionality. Physical rehabilitation remains critical for pain management and improving surgical outcomes.
Are There Risks and Complications Associated with the Procedure?
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks and complications associated with knee revision surgery. Bleeding, infection, a blood clot, pulmonary embolism, and nerve damage are a few examples. The risks can be reduced so long as the orthopedic surgeon has an advanced mastery of surgical techniques, the staff has good sterilization practices in the operating room, and the patient is provided antibiotics as well as thorough safety and cleanliness instructions before and after surgery.
What is the Lifespan of a Replacement Implant?
Factors can affect the lifespan of a replacement prosthesis. For instance, bone quality and the fixation of the implant can affect its longevity. Generally, implants used in knee replacement surgery and knee revision surgery can last up to 20 years.
Revision knee replacement surgery requires extensive preoperative planning. If you want to know more about it or are wondering if you are right for the procedure, talk to a knee replacement surgeon.
Knee Replacement Surgeon in North Dakota
If you are unhappy with the results of a knee replacement surgery due to persistent pain, stiffness, and mobility impairment, talk to one of our knee surgeons at The Bone & Joint Center. Call our clinic at (701) 946-7400 / (866) 900-8650 to make an appointment or use our online request form.
