Treatment
Revision Joint Replacment
What is revision joint replacement?
Revision joint replacement is more complex than a primary (‘first time’) joint replacement and has a different post-operative risk profile. It is major surgery that should be carefully considered as the recovery is long.Knee replacement surgery involves replacing damaged areas of the knee joint with prosthetic components to address pain and loss of function caused by arthritis or other joint conditions. The damaged cartilage and underlying bone are replaced to relieve pain, restore function and improve mobility.
Common Causes
- Aseptic loosening
- Infection
- Instability or dislocation
- Stiffness
- Excessive wear
- Metal particle disease
- Fracture
Types of Revision Joint Replacement Surgery
Revision Hip Replacement
Problematic hip replacements may present similarly, but with some important differences. The pain may be felt in the groin or the thigh. The hip joint may feel like it’s ‘impinging’ and making unnatural contact with the pelvis. The prosthetic hip joint may frankly dislocate and need to be pulled back into place to allow the patient to walk.
Around 1 in 20 patients that have a total hip replacement will require some kind of revision procedure in the first 10 years after surgery.
Around 1 in 20 patients that have a total hip replacement will require some kind of revision procedure in the first 10 years after surgery.
Revision Knee Replacement
Problematic knee replacements may present with a combination of pain, swelling, giving way, stiffness, or infectious symptoms, such as non-healing wounds, redness or discharge.
Around 1 in 20 patients that have a knee replacement will require some kind of revision procedure in the first 10 years after surgery.
Around 1 in 20 patients that have a knee replacement will require some kind of revision procedure in the first 10 years after surgery.
How is revision joint replacement performed?
Revision joint replacement is performed through an incision that provides access to the previous implants and surrounding bone. The existing prosthesis is carefully removed and replaced with new components, while any bone loss, instability or other underlying problems are addressed to restore function and relieve pain. Because revision surgery is more complex than primary joint replacement, specialised implants and techniques may be required depending on the reason for revision.
Dr Farey uses robotics to precisely position and balance the knee replacement according to your anatomy.
Learn More
How to prepare for revision joint replacement
Attend appointments with any additional specialists involved in your care.
Focus on low-impact exercises such as cycling and swimming.
Participate in pre-habilitation with a physiotherapist to support your recovery after surgery.
Complete any required blood tests and investigations before your procedure.
Ensure your General Practitioner receives all relevant correspondence and recommendations.
Maintain your activity levels and fitness as much as possible before surgery.
Risks to consider
Revision joint replacement is a major surgical procedure, and there are many important risks that will be discussed in consultation, both prior to making a decision to proceed with surgery and as part of the informed consent process. If you have a specific concern that is important to you, please let us know about it.