Knee Revision Surgery

Revision knee replacement surgery is a procedure that entails replacing some or all of the previous knee prostheses with new ones. Despite the success of total knee replacement surgery, it can sometimes fail for various reasons and necessitate a subsequent revision surgery. The knee joints are cushioned by soft articular cartilage, which facilitates the smooth movement of the joint bones. However, the degeneration of this cartilage due to wear and tear can cause arthritis, a condition that is often accompanied by severe pain.

Need to know

What happens during surgery?

During revision knee replacement surgery, one or all of the knee components may need to be replaced. The procedure is carried out under general anaesthesia. Initially, an incision is made over the knee to reveal the knee joint, and the kneecap and ligament may be moved to make room for the operation. The old femoral component of the knee prosthesis is then removed, and the femur is prepared to receive the new component. In some cases, lost bone is replaced with either bone graft or a metal wedge.

The damaged tibial component and plastic liner are then removed, and the tibia is prepared to receive the new component. Similarly, lost bone is replaced with either bone graft or a metal wedge. The new tibial component is attached to the end of the bone using bone cement, and a new plastic liner is placed on top of the tibial component. If the patella (kneecap) is damaged, a plastic component will be attached after resurfacing it.

Finally, the new tibial and femoral components of the prosthesis are brought together to form the new knee joint, and the knee muscles and tendons are reattached. Surgical drains are placed to drain excess blood, and the incision is closed.

How to prepare?

To achieve the best possible outcome and minimize the risk of complications, it is essential to prepare for any surgical procedure, including knee replacement surgery. Below are some tips to help you prepare for the surgery:

Consult with Doctor: Discuss the surgery with your doctor and seek answers to any questions you may have. Your doctor will also review your medical history and any medications you are taking that may affect the surgery or recovery.

Adhere to pre-operative instructions: Your doctor may provide specific instructions to follow before the surgery, such as refraining from eating or drinking or stopping certain medications. It is vital to adhere to these instructions to reduce the risk of complications during and after the surgery.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and quitting smoking, can enhance your overall health and decrease the likelihood of complications during and after the surgery.

By following these recommendations, you can help guarantee a successful knee replacement surgery and a seamless recovery.

After knee revision surgery?

Following revision knee replacement surgery, a CPM machine may be used to slowly move the knee joint while you rest. You can walk with crutches or a walker and will begin rehabilitation within a few days of the surgery. A physical therapist will teach you exercises to strengthen your leg muscles and restore your knee’s range of motion. Knee immobilizers will be used to stabilize your knee during physical therapy, walking, and sleeping.

Revision knee replacement surgery replaces a failed knee prosthesis with a new component, improving mobility and allowing you to resume daily activities without knee pain.