Revision Arthroplasty of the Knee

Overview

 

 

Revision Arthroplasty of the⁢ Knee ⁢is a surgical procedure ⁣that doctors often ‌perform when a previous knee replacement starts to fail. As knee replacements have a ⁤lifespan, they may eventually require a revision or replacement. Data suggests that most modern knee prostheses are highly durable, with about 90% still functioning 15 years after the surgery. Nonetheless, various factors might⁢ make a knee arthroplasty necessary.

 

Types

 

 

Two types of knee arthroplasty ⁣refer​ to primary and ⁢revision knee arthroplasty. Primary knee arthroplasty is the regular surgical​ replacement procedure in which the damaged sections of the‍ knee joint are ⁣replaced with artificial ​parts.⁤ Revision knee arthroplasty, on the other hand, is more complex and is needed when a previously implanted artificial knee joint needs⁣ to be replaced.

 

Causes

 

 

The main causes of knee arthroplasty failure necessitating a ‍revision procedure include:

    • Infection of the joint

 

    • Wear and tear of ‌the artificial joint

 

    • Loosening or dislocation of the artificial joint

 

    • Knee instability⁣ or stiffness

 

    • Damage from an accident⁢ or fall

 

    • Repeated high-impact activities and heavy manual ​work

 

 

 

Symptoms

 

 

If your⁣ previous knee replacement fails, you may experience:

    • Increasing ‌knee pain

 

    • Swelling or warm feeling in the knee

 

    • Decreased mobility

 

    • An unstable or wobbly‌ feeling when putting weight on the knee

 

    • A noticeable clicking or grinding sound in the knee

 

 

 

Diagnosis

 

 

Your surgeon will perform a physical examination⁣ and may request imaging⁢ tests like X-rays,​ magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or computerized tomography (CT) scans. ​In some cases, a blood test might help identify if an infection is present. Your doctor may also inquire about your symptoms⁤ and the impact on your daily activities.

 

Treatment Options

 

 

Treatment can vary ⁤depending on why the original knee replacement failed:

    • For infections – ​antibiotics may be initially given, followed⁢ by revision surgery to replace the‌ infected prosthesis‌ with a new one.

 

    • For‍ loosening​ or ⁣instability of ⁢the ‌implant – a revision surgery might be necessary to⁢ fix or⁢ replace the prosthesis.

 

    • For arthrofibrosis (the knee​ becomes stiff and⁤ loses ⁢its range of motion) -⁣ physical therapy or a “manipulation” procedure may be needed. Revision surgery might be required‌ in severe cases.

 

 

 

Living with Revision Arthroplasty of the Knee

 

 

Post-revision, life will initially demand patience and determination. Physical therapy is a crucial ⁢part of recovery as it helps regain strength, stability, and a range of ⁢motion in your knee. There might be lifestyle changes required⁢ in terms of physical activities, such ‌as avoiding high-impact activities like jogging or jumping. Regular follow-up with your surgeon is also important to monitor the performance of your new knee replacement.

 

When to Seek Help

 

 

If you have a previous knee replacement and you notice increasing pain,⁣ swelling, knee instability, or decreased mobility, you should seek immediate medical attention. These ⁢can ⁣be signs that⁤ your knee replacement is failing and‌ a revision arthroplasty procedure might be necessary.

Remember, in cases indicating infection, like fever and redness around the knee, ​urgent medical attention⁤ is vital. With revision arthroplasty of ‍the knee, early diagnosis can provide better‍ outcomes, so it’s⁤ essential to consult your doctor promptly when you experience symptoms.