Treatment
Revision Joint Replacement
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Meet Dr Farey
What is revision joint replacement?
Despite major improvements in how joint replacements are performed and how long they last, some will still need to be re-done (‘revision’).
Revision joint replacement is more complex than a primary (first) joint replacement and has a different post-operative risk profile. Revision joint replacement is major surgery and should be carefully considered, as recovery is typically longer than after primary joint replacement.
Revision joint replacement is more complex than a primary (first) joint replacement and has a different post-operative risk profile. Revision joint replacement is major surgery and should be carefully considered, as recovery is typically longer than after primary joint replacement.
Common Indications
- Aseptic loosening
- Infection
- Instability or dislocation
- Stiffness
- Excessive wear
- Metal particle disease
- Fracture
Types of Revision Joint Replacement Surgery that Dr Farey Performs
Revision Hip Replacement
Problematic hip replacements may present with pain felt in the groin or the thigh. The hip joint may feel like it’s making unnatural contact with the pelvis. The prosthetic hip joint may 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 signs of infection, 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.
Robotic Surgery
Robotic technology can be used selectively to perform revision joint replacement, but it is far less common at this stage. It is most commonly performed with specialised implants and X-rays.
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How to prepare for revision joint replacement
Attend appointments with any additional specialists involved in your care.
Request records of your previous surgery, including operation reports and implant details.
Complete any required blood tests and investigations before your procedure.
Receive specialised imaging, including X-rays, CT scans or MRI.
Ensure your General Practitioner receives all relevant correspondence and recommendations.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle, cease smoking and ensure good blood sugar control.
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.
Frequently asked questions
This differs by the indication for surgery and the number of previous surgeries, so it’s very difficult to give a specific number. We will talk through your individual case. A revision joint replacement is a major life event with a significant recovery that we will work through together. The goal of treatment is the same regardless of the indication: to reduce your pain, improve your joint function, and restore your quality of life.
The most important things are maintaining your fitness as best as possible, ensuring good blood sugar control, and refraining from smoking. I will refer you for evaluation by a physician and an anaesthetist to provide advice on how we can get you in the best condition for surgery. You will need to provide the details of the original surgeon and hospital where the procedure was performed so that we can request the operation report and implant details.