Revision Knee Replacement

What is Knee Replacement Revision Surgery?

Knee revision surgery is a procedure where an orthopedic surgeon removes a previous knee implant and replaces it with a new prosthetic. Depending on the specific needs of the patient, a surgeon may only need to replace certain components of the original implant rather than the entire system.

To ensure the new joint provides adequate support and restores a functional range of motion, surgeons often utilize specialized revision components. These may include stems that are anchored into the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone). In instances where significant bone loss has occurred, the surgical team can stabilize the area using a variety of methods, including metal cones, metal augments, wires, or bone grafts to reduce immediate stress on the bone and provide a solid foundation for the new implant.

Who Should Have a Knee Replacement Revision Surgery?

Several factors may lead a patient with a previous knee replacement to require a revision procedure:

• Loosening of the Implant: Over time, an implant can become detached from the bone. This is often caused by the natural wear and tear of the high-performance plastic insert—especially in patients who maintain very active lifestyles—or it can be accelerated by increases in body weight.
• End of Implant Lifespan: Most knee replacements have a functional lifespan of approximately 15 to 30 years. Eventually, the friction between the prosthetic parts causes them to wear out, necessitating a replacement.
• Infection: An infection is one of the most frequent reasons for revision surgery within the first two years following an initial replacement. However, infections can occur even many years after the original procedure. Because infection is a serious complication, Fox Valley Orthopedics employs rigorous protocols during the primary surgery to minimize this risk from the start.
• Excessive Stiffness: In some cases, the buildup of excessive scar tissue around the knee joint can make the joint too stiff for the patient to function comfortably, requiring surgical intervention to restore mobility.

How Well Does a Knee Replacement Revision Surgery Work?

The vast majority of patients—over 90 percent—can expect positive to excellent outcomes. This typically manifests as a significant reduction in pain along with improved stability and overall function of the knee. While most patients experience substantial relief, some may continue to feel mild discomfort. In rare instances, pain persists more significantly; however, this can often be managed effectively with over-the-counter medications.

It is important to note that revision surgery is more technically complex than a primary knee replacement. Consequently, there is a slightly higher risk of standard surgical complications, including anesthesia issues, infection, or the development of blood clots.

What Can I Expect When I Have a Knee Replacement Revision Surgery?

Once your procedure is scheduled with Fox Valley Orthopedics, a nurse navigator will contact you to coordinate your care. They will provide guidance and encourage you to utilize our educational guides and online videos to ensure you are fully prepared for the process.

To prepare for a successful recovery, we recommend the following:

• Arrange Home Support: Plan to have assistance at home during the first few weeks following surgery. While you may regain some independence quickly, you will likely experience fatigue and benefit from help with daily tasks.
• Optimize Your Living Space: Evaluate your home and kitchen to ensure they are easy to navigate. This includes removing large area rugs and clearing away obstacles that could hinder movement.
• Ensure Safety: Check that all handrails are sturdy and secure, and make sure electrical cords are tucked away to eliminate tripping hazards.

Before the surgery, you will need a pre-surgical physical examination from your primary care provider. Depending on your health history, we may also require clearances from specialists in Pulmonology or Cardiology to ensure you are fit for the procedure.

On the day of your surgery at our facility, you will meet with your surgeon and the anesthesia team. The anesthesiologist will determine the best approach for your specific needs, which may involve general anesthesia, a spinal block, or a nerve block. The surgical process generally lasts between two and three hours. After the procedure, you will spend one to two hours in the recovery room before being moved to a private room.

While in your room, our nursing staff and therapy team will collaborate with your doctor to monitor your progress and help you meet the milestones necessary for discharge. While every patient is different, many are able to return home the following day. Regardless of whether you return home independently or with assistance, we ensure your discharge plan is safe and comprehensive.

Most patients feel a return to their “normal” routine within eight to twelve weeks. However, achieving a full recovery can take up to a year, depending on your overall health and your commitment to the physical therapy process.