Knee Revision Surgery for Knee Complications

Arthritis of the knee joints is caused by the wear and tear of the soft articular cartilage that cushions the joints and aids in smooth movement of the joint bones, which can cause severe pain, discomfort, and immobility.

During total knee replacement, the damaged cartilage and bone is removed from the knee joint and replaced with artificial components. Even when total knee replacement surgery is successful, the procedure may sometimes require a second, Revision Knee Surgery.

What Is Revision Knee Replacement Surgery?

Revision Knee Surgery follows total knee replacement surgery, and involves replacing a part or all the previous knee prosthesis with a new prosthesis.

What Is the procedure for Revision Knee Replacement Surgery?

The orthopedic surgeon performs Revision Knee Replacement Surgery according to the following procedure:

• The surgeon makes an incision over the knee to expose the knee joint, then may move the kneecap and its ligament to the side to make room to perform the operation.
• The surgeon removes the old femoral component of the knee prosthesis, prepares the femur to receive the new component, and may remove damaged bone and replace it using a bone graft or metal wedge.
• The surgeon removes the tibial component and the old plastic liner, cuts the damaged bone, and prepares the tibia to receive the new component.
• The surgeon replaces the lost bone using a metal wedge or bone graft, secures a new tibial component to the end of the bone using bone cement, and places a new plastic liner on top of the tibial component. If the patella (kneecap) has been damaged, the surgeon will resurface and attach a plastic component.
• The surgeon will bring the new tibial and femoral components of the prosthesis together to form the new knee joint, and then reattach the knee muscles and tendons.
• The surgeon will close the incision with surgical glue leaving the patient with minimal postoperative wound care.

What Happens After Revision Knee Replacement Surgery?

Following Revision Knee Replacement Surgery, the patient will be sent home that same day and can walk with crutches or a walker. Within a few days, the patient will begin a physical therapy rehabilitation program and learn specific exercises to strengthen the leg and restore range of motion to the knee.

What Are the Risks and Complications of Revision Knee Replacement Surgery?

Like all surgical procedures, there may be possible risks and complications involved with Revision Knee Replacement Surgery, which include: stiffness, infection, bleeding, blood clots, prosthesis failure, kneecap dislocation, ligament injuries, and damage to the nerves, blood vessels, and surrounding tissues.

Your knees are critical to your wellbeing and quality of life. If you require Revision Knee Replacement Surgery, turn to the experts at Orthopedic Institute of North Texas.