Revision knee replacement surgery is an advanced surgical procedure designed to alleviate pain, restore function, and improve quality of life for patients experiencing issues with a previous knee replacement.
As a leading orthopedic surgeon in Maryland, Dr. Ulric Bigby specializes in complex procedures such as this. With a friendly yet professional approach, Dr. Bigby ensures personalized patient care, using advanced surgical techniques for optimal results.
Revision knee replacement surgery is a complex procedure performed when a previous knee replacement fails, leading to pain, instability, or stiffness that restricts daily activities.
This operation can range from minor adjustments to extensive surgeries that include the removal and replacement of some or all parts of the original prosthesis. The extent of your surgery will depend on your unique needs.
Although more complex and longer than primary total knee replacement, revision surgery is crucial to relieve pain and improve function.
There are several reasons why a knee replacement may fail and necessitate a revision surgery:
- Infection: Despite stringent sterile conditions during surgery, infection can occur. In such cases, the knee may become stiff, painful, and swollen.
- Implant Loosening or Wear: Implants, initially firmly fixed to the bone, can loosen over time due to high-impact activities, excessive body weight, or wear of the plastic component of the implant.
- Instability: If the ligaments around the knee become damaged or imbalanced, the knee might become unstable, leading to recurrent swelling and a feeling of the knee "giving way."
- Stiffness: Excessive scar tissue build-up around the knee joint can limit the range of motion required for everyday activities.
- Fractures: A periprosthetic fracture, a broken bone occurring around the components of a total knee replacement, usually due to a fall, often requires revision surgery.
Patients experiencing persistent pain, swelling, stiffness, or instability following a knee replacement surgery are potential candidates for knee revision surgery.
However, the decision is made only after thorough clinical examination, imaging tests, and laboratory evaluations to ascertain the extent of the problem and establish the necessity of a revision surgery.
Dr. Ulric Bigby tailors the procedure to each patient's unique condition and requirements. Generally, the process involves:
- Removing the Original Implant: The original implant is meticulously removed to preserve as much bone as possible. If cement was used in the initial knee replacement, it will also be removed.
- Bone Preparation: After removing the original implant, the bone surfaces are prepared for the revision implant. In cases of significant bone loss, metal augments or bone graft material may be used to rebuild the knee.
- Inserting the Revision Implant: Finally, specialized revision implants are inserted, and any damaged surrounding soft tissues are repaired.
The operation typically takes longer than a primary total knee replacement due to its complexity and the need for extensive preoperative planning.
Recovery after revision surgery is generally slower than after a primary total knee replacement. Pain management, physical therapy, and preventive measures against potential complications like blood clots and infection are crucial parts of the recovery process.
Postoperative care includes specific exercises to strengthen the leg, restore range of motion, and aid walking. You may require assistive devices like a walker or crutches initially, progressing to a cane or unaided walking as you continue to heal.
Like any surgical procedure, revision knee replacement surgery carries potential risks, including infection, blood clots, reduced range of motion, poor wound healing, and complications from anesthesia. However, Dr. Bigby's extensive experience and commitment to optimal patient care help minimize these risks.
Experience the innovation of advanced surgical techniques that achieve a quicker recovery and enhanced mobility. With Dr. Bigby's guidance and expertise, you can step into a brighter, pain-free future.
Schedule your consultation online or get in touch with Dr. Bigby at one of his three locations:
Dr. Bigby and his team are committed to providing the highest level of patient care, ensuring that your journey toward a pain-free life is as comfortable and successful as possible.