Revision Total Knee Replacement
Total Knee Replacement (TKR) is one of the most satisfying orthopedic procedure of the twentieth century. This is due to the substantial pain relief and restoration of function after TKR. Improvements in surgical materials and techniques have greatly improved its efficiency; approximately 2,00,000 knee replacements are performed each year in the India.
With newer implant designs and improved surgical techniques, total knee replacements can be expected to function well for at least 15 to 20 years in more than 80-90% of patients. After 15 years knee may fail and need a second surgery, called revision knee replacement.
What is Revision Total Knee Replacement?
Revision Total Knee Replacement is the replacement of the preceding failed total knee prosthesis with a new prosthesis. It is a complex process that needs general preoperative planning, specialized implants and tools, prolonged operating times, and mastery of difficult surgical techniques to achieve a good result.
What happens during surgery?
Most revision total knee replacements take longer to perform than mainprocesses (about two to four hours). The first step is removal of the implant. If there has been important bone loss, bone grafts may be necessary to fill the voids. . In several cases, metal wedges, wires or screws may be used to strengthen the bone. Finally, specialized revision knee implants are inserted
What about after surgery?
Post-operative care after knee revision surgery is very similar to the care of a primary knee replacement. Recovery time after revision knee surgery varies; some patients take longer to recover.
What should you expect after surgery?
Greater than 80% of patients who undergo revision processes can expect to have well to excellent results. Although expected outcomes include pain relief with improved stability and function, complete pain relief and restoration of function is not always possible. Up to 20% of patients may still complain about some pain following revision knee surgery. This can persist for several years after the procedure.
