In the majority of people with a total knee replacement, the knee implants used are likely to last for 15 to 20 years. By this, we mean that if an individual has had a knee replacement at a younger age, they might need a second operation eventually. This is done to clean the bone surfaces and re-fixate the implants. With the best knee replacement surgeon in Noida, let’s explore what a revision knee replacement is.
What is a knee revision?
A knee revision refers to the replacement of prosthetic implants in your knee that were placed when you had a total knee replacement. In this surgery, known as reoperation, the original prosthesis is replaced with a new one.
Some knee revisions might need replacing only one implant while others might require a complete exchange of these prostheses that were implanted in the original surgery. This is referred to as total knee replacement surgery. A complete one requires extensive planning, specialized tools and implants, longer operating time, and mastery of difficult surgeries.
Who needs knee revision surgery?
A knee revision may be required for any person whose prosthetic knee implant fails because of injury or wear, or anyone with an infection in the area surrounding the implant. In elderly people who had a knee replacement, artificial knee implants may last for life. However, in younger patients, especially individuals who maintain an active lifestyle, knee prostheses may fail eventually, which then requires a second replacement later in life.
The most common reasons for s revision surgery are:
- Infection: The risk of infection is less than 1% in total knee replacement but when they occur, knee revision of one kind or another is required.
- Stiffness: Excessive scar tissue buildup around the knee can prevent the joint from gaining its full motion.
- Instability: This happens when the soft tissues surrounding the knees are unable to provide the stability required for adequate functioning while standing or walking.
- Wear and tear: This can include breakage or loosening of the implants due to friction
Knee revision surgeries bring along the capacity to improve your mobility, coordination, and strength. Moreover, before you go in for knee revision surgery, you should ask all the critical questions to find the right course for you. For any further questions, you can always consult the best knee replacement surgeon in Delhi NCR – Dr A K Sharma.
