Revision Knee Arthroplasty

Complex surgery to address failed knee replacements and restore function

What is Revision Knee Arthroplasty?

Revision knee arthroplasty is a complex surgical procedure to replace or repair a failed knee replacement. This specialized surgery addresses complications from previous knee replacements, including implant loosening, wear, infection, or instability. It requires advanced surgical expertise and often involves bone grafting and specialized implants.

Complex Procedure: Revision knee surgery is significantly more complex than primary knee replacement, with surgery times of 2-4 hours and longer recovery periods.

When is Revision Knee Surgery Needed?

Revision knee arthroplasty may be necessary for various reasons:

  • Implant Loosening: When the implant becomes loose from the bone over time
  • Wear and Tear: Excessive wear of plastic components leading to bone damage
  • Infection: Deep infection around the implant requiring removal and replacement
  • Instability: Knee instability due to ligament imbalance or component malposition
  • Fracture: Bone fractures around the implant (periprosthetic fractures)
  • Stiffness: Severe stiffness limiting knee function
  • Component Failure: Mechanical failure of implant components
  • Osteolysis: Bone loss due to wear particles

Revision Surgery Process

1

Comprehensive Evaluation

Detailed assessment including imaging, blood tests, and sometimes aspiration to determine the cause of failure.

2

Surgical Planning

Complex pre-operative planning including bone stock assessment, implant selection, and potential need for bone grafting.

3

Revision Surgery

2-4 hour procedure to remove old implants, address bone loss, and install new components, often with bone grafting.

4

Extended Recovery

Longer recovery period (4-6 months) with careful monitoring and specialized rehabilitation.

Types of Revision Procedures

Partial Revision

Replacement of only the failing component (femoral or tibial) when the other component is functioning well.

Complete Revision

Replacement of all components including femoral, tibial, and patellar components for comprehensive treatment.

Complex Revision

Extensive surgery with bone grafting, structural support, and specialized implants for severe bone loss.

Challenges and Considerations

Revision knee surgery presents unique challenges:

  • Bone Loss: Previous surgery may have resulted in bone loss requiring reconstruction
  • Scar Tissue: Previous surgery creates scar tissue making the procedure more difficult
  • Longer Recovery: Extended healing time and rehabilitation period
  • Higher Risk: Increased risk of complications compared to primary surgery
  • Specialized Expertise: Requires surgeon with extensive revision experience
  • Range of Motion: May be limited compared to primary knee replacement

Need Revision Knee Surgery?

Our specialized orthopedic surgeons have extensive experience in complex revision knee procedures. Schedule a consultation to discuss your options and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Schedule Consultation+1-555-BLUME-MD

Specialized revision surgery expertise. Second opinion consultations available.