A revision total knee replacement is necessary when a previous knee replacement has failed or is no longer working properly. This may occur due to infection, instability, wear and tear of the implant, fracture of the knee or thighbone, or a buildup of scar tissue. If you encounter any of these issues, a revision total knee replacement may be right for you. During this procedure, the original prosthesis is taken out and replaced with a new one. This procedure is more complex than a primary total knee replacement and needs specialized tools and an experienced surgeon.
A revision total knee replacement typically consists of two phases. First, the existing prosthetic joint is removed. A new artificial joint is then firmly attached with stems for extra stability. As the bone is now a different shape, the surgeon must use a prosthetic implant tailored to match the bone structure of the patient. This prosthetic may also be longer to make up for lost bone structure. To ensure the new prosthesis fits into the natural shape of the leg, pre-operative planning is essential, and in some cases, a pre-operative CT scan may be necessary. Specialized tools and the advanced technical skill of the surgeons at ArthRobotix are key for this process.
Generally, patients will experience mild post-operative pain and swelling around the joint, which can be managed with Tylenol and Celebrex as well as icepacks. It is recommended that patients begin walking unassisted within a few hours of the procedure. To aid in the healing process, it is suggested to keep the knee in a comfortable position, wear supportive shoes, and exercise daily. With regular physical therapy, full strength and range of motion can be recovered within a month or two.
Revision total knee replacement is more complex than primary total knee replacement and requires specialized tools and a skilled surgeon. If you are experiencing any of the issues that may necessitate a revision total knee replacement, it is important that you seek a qualified and experienced surgeon, such as those at ArthRobotix. Our surgeons have extensive experience in performing this procedure and will work closely with you to ensure you understand the risks and benefits of the procedure and are comfortable with the customized treatment plan.
