Revision knee replacement

Addressing complications in knee surgery

A revision knee replacement is a surgical procedure designed to replace or repair a previously implanted artificial knee joint that has worn out, failed, or developed complications. This surgery involves removing the old prosthesis and replacing it with a new one, often requiring more complex techniques than those used in the initial procedure.

A revision knee replacement is performed to address various issues, such as implant loosening, infection, instability, or damage to the surrounding bone. Because this procedure may involve extensive bone and tissue reconstruction, recovery can take longer compared to the initial knee replacement.

If you are experiencing complications from a previous knee replacement, a revision knee replacement can provide a necessary solution to restore function and alleviate pain.

Who is a Candidate?

Patients who previously had a total knee replacement that has failed or is causing symptoms. Common reasons for revision:

• Implant loosening or wear
• Joint infection
• Instability or dislocation of the prosthetic knee
• Persistent pain or stiffness
• Fracture around a preexisting knee implant.

Candidates must be medically fit for major surgery.

Recovery Timeline

(May vary with provider)

• Hospital stay: Longer than primary knee joint replacement surgery (typically 5–10 days).
  Early recovery: Mobilisation with walking aids within a few days
• Rehabilitation: Intensive physiotherapy to regain strength and range of motion; recovery is slower than primary knee joint replacement surgery
• Return to daily activities: 3–6 months, depending on complexity
• Full recovery: Up to 12 months; may be limited compared to primary knee surgery due to bone loss or soft tissue challenges.

Benefits

• Relief of pain from failed or worn knee replacement
• Improved mobility and function
• Restoration of knee stability and alignment
• Prevention of further joint or bone damage.

Risks

• Standard surgical risks; infection, blood clots, bleeding
• Implant failure or loosening
• Nerve or blood vessel injury
• Persistent pain or reduced mobility
• Need for further revision surgery.

This is just an outline. Your specialist orthopaedic surgeon will be able to talk to you about these issues in more detail and make sure that there is informed consent.