What is Revision Total Knee Replacement?

According to research done by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, more than 90% of people feel a reduction in pain and swelling in their knees after knee replacement surgery. An implant can last for approximately 15 to 20 years depending on its type and the wear & tear it undergoes. After some years, you will again start feeling pain and swelling in your knees which increases the want for a revision knee replacement surgery.


In revision total knee replacement your orthopedic surgeon will replace the damaged parts of the original prosthesis with new ones. The procedure aims to provide relief from pain and improve the mobility and function of the knee. Revision total knee replacement is quite different from Primary total knee replacement surgery. The revision knee replacement surgery is time-consuming, has a complex procedure and requires special implants & tools for the surgery.

Cure My Knee has many empaneled surgeons having 37+ years of experience in treating bone and joint-related problems. The surgeons provide the patient with the best treatment plan according to their requirements. The surgeons perform the surgery in the best-empaneled hospitals having qualified medical staff & advanced high-tech equipment to perform revision knee replacement surgery.



When is this surgery recommended?

There are different types of revision knee replacement. Some surgery replaces only one part of the prosthesis i.e. either the tibia or femur part but some surgery requires replacing all three parts of the implants i.e. tibia, femur and patella parts. The surgery is done on the basis of the complexities and severity of the problem. A revision knee replacement surgery is usually recommended in conditions like:

  • Aseptic Loosening, instability, and malalignment of the implants may cause increased soft-tissue laxity around the knee which may alter the knee function and require revision total knee replacement surgery.
  • Periprosthetic fractures.
  • Long-term wear and tear of the implants may also be a reason why Revision Knee replacement is considered.
  • Patient-Related Factors like obesity may increase the incidence of implant failure, age, and activity level of the patients can also contribute to implant failure, younger or more active patients tend to have a higher rate of revision than older, and less active patients.
  • Infection due to implants can result in stiffness and pain in your knees which will require revision surgery.
  • Knee instability due to damaged or improper ligaments can also be a reason to undergo revision knee replacement surgery.

The procedure of Revision Knee replacement surgery

During the procedure, your orthopedic surgeon may remove the damaged implant or prosthesis which was fixed during total knee replacement. In case of damage to the bone, the orthopedic surgeon may find it difficult to use standard total knee implants for revision knee replacement. However, in most cases, the surgeon may use specialized implants with thicker, longer, stems that can fit deeper inside the bone and provide extra support.

Revision total knee surgery is a complex procedure that requires specialized implants and tools, extensive preoperative planning, and prolonged operating time.


Recovery after Revision Knee Replacement Surgery

The recovery after a revision knee replacement surgery is as same as the primary replacement surgery. Medication, physiotherapy and lifestyle modifications are also suggested in revision total knee replacement surgery.

  • For the first few weeks after the surgery, you will be suggested to walk with a walker or support
  • Your orthopedic doctor or physiotherapists will suggest some specific strengthening exercises that will help you to regain your motion
  • Your doctor may also suggest you some compression stockings or leg coverings that will keep your leg warm and reduce the chances of leg swelling and blood clots
  • You will be advised not to consume alcohol or smoke after the surgery as it can increase the chances of infection and prevents blood clotting
  • Take Vitamin D and Calcium supplements under your doctor’s guidance after the surgery to improve your bone health
  • Always follow your doctor’s advice to recover as early as possible after the knee replacement surgery

Also Read: Tips to Prevent Knee Replacement Surgery


How successful is revision knee replacement surgery?

According to an article in the National Library of Medicine, a revision of total knee replacement surgery improves the ability of a patient to walk and perform work. It is said that the success rate for revision surgery is 90% for 5 years. More than 90% of patients who undergo revision total knee replacement can expect to have good to excellent results. Although it's not always possible to have complete pain relief and restored function the patients can find pain relief with improved stability and function.