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Knee Revision Surgery in India

Replacement or repair of a failed or worn knee implant from previous surgery

Overview

Knee Revision Surgery is a complex surgical procedure performed to replace or repair a previously implanted knee prosthesis that has failed due to wear, loosening, infection, or other complications. This surgery is more technically demanding than primary knee replacement and requires specialized expertise and advanced surgical techniques. At Arthroscenter, Dr. Gurudeo Kumar has successfully performed over 200 complex knee revision surgeries with a 94% success rate. Our facility is equipped with state-of-the-art imaging technology and revision-specific implants to handle even the most challenging cases. Knee revision surgery may be necessary 10-20 years after the initial replacement, though some implants may last longer. The procedure involves removing the original implant, preparing the bone surfaces, and installing new components designed specifically for revision cases. Recovery typically takes longer than primary replacement, but most patients achieve significant improvement in pain relief and function.

Symptoms & Indications

This surgery may be recommended if you experience:

Persistent pain despite previous knee replacement

Loosening of the knee implant

Instability or feeling of giving way

Infection of the joint replacement

Fracture around the implant (periprosthetic fracture)

Wear of the plastic component

Stiffness and reduced range of motion

Swelling and warmth around the knee

Procedure Details

Duration

2-4 hours

Anesthesia

General or Spinal Anesthesia

Preparation for Surgery

Comprehensive imaging including X-rays, CT scans, and sometimes bone scans. Blood tests to rule out infection. Discussion of revision implant options and surgical approach.

Surgical Steps

1

General or spinal anesthesia administered

2

Incision made over the previous surgical scar

3

Careful removal of the existing implant components

4

Thorough cleaning and assessment of bone quality

5

Treatment of any infection if present

6

Bone grafting if needed for defects

7

Installation of revision-specific implant components

8

Testing of alignment, stability, and range of motion

9

Closure with sutures and sterile dressing

Recovery Timeline

What to expect during your recovery journey

Week 1-3

Hospital Stay & Initial Recovery

Intensive pain management, wound care, and beginning physical therapy with careful weight-bearing progression.

Week 4-8

Protected Rehabilitation

Gradual increase in activity with continued physical therapy. Use of assistive devices.

Week 8-12

Progressive Strengthening

Building strength and endurance. Reduced reliance on walking aids.

Month 3-6

Advanced Recovery

Continued improvement in function and mobility. Return to light daily activities.

Month 6-12

Long-term Recovery

Ongoing strengthening and adaptation to new implant. Gradual return to activities.

Tips for Faster Recovery

Follow all weight-bearing restrictions carefully

Attend every physical therapy session

Report any signs of infection immediately

Take antibiotics as prescribed for dental procedures

Avoid high-impact activities permanently

Use ice and elevation to manage swelling

Maintain healthy weight to protect the implant

Keep all follow-up appointments for monitoring

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this procedure

Q1.How long do revision knee replacements last?

Revision knee replacements typically last 10-15 years, though this can vary based on activity level, bone quality, and patient factors. Regular monitoring is essential.

Q2.Is revision surgery more painful than the first replacement?

Revision surgery often involves more extensive tissue work and bone preparation, which may result in a longer recovery period. However, modern pain management techniques help control discomfort effectively.

Q3.What causes a knee replacement to fail?

Common causes include implant wear, loosening, infection, instability, fracture, or technical issues from the original surgery. Age and activity level also play roles.

Q4.Can I avoid revision surgery?

While some revisions are unavoidable due to natural wear, maintaining healthy weight, avoiding high-impact activities, and attending regular check-ups can help maximize implant lifespan.

Q5.Is the recovery harder than primary replacement?

Yes, revision surgery typically requires a longer recovery period (6-12 months) as the surgery is more complex and bone healing may take longer. Close adherence to rehabilitation is crucial.

Q6.Will I need bone grafting?

Bone grafting may be necessary if there is significant bone loss around the failed implant. Dr. Kumar will assess this during pre-operative imaging and planning.

Q7.Can the surgery be done arthroscopically?

No, knee revision surgery requires an open surgical approach to properly remove the old implant and install new components. It cannot be done arthroscopically.

Q8.What are the risks of revision surgery?

Risks include infection (2-3%), blood clots, nerve damage, continued pain, implant loosening, and need for further revision. These risks are higher than primary replacement but can be minimized with proper technique.

Considering This Surgery?

Book an online video consultation with Dr. Gurudeo Kumar for just ₹999 and get all your questions answered