Sometimes, knee replacement surgery doesn’t work out as expected. If you need a knee revision, contact Brian Solberg, MD, at LA Orthopaedic Specialists in Downtown Los Angeles, California. Dr. Solberg offers knee revision surgery to relieve your pain and restore the function of your knee. Call LA Orthopaedic Specialists or schedule a consultation online today for expert orthopaedic care.

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What is a knee revision?

A knee revision is a procedure to replace a previous knee replacement. In most cases, knee replacements fail over time as additional wear-and-tear damages your knee. 

Knee revision surgery is more complicated than a standard knee replacement. Your surgeon needs to carefully remove your prosthetics and repair or remove any damaged tissue before attaching new prosthetics. 

Why would I need a knee revision?

One of the primary reasons for knee revision surgery is your replacement becoming loose, or wearing out. For example, if you had a knee replacement in your 50s, the chances are that over time your replacement knee will also wear out and need to be replaced. 

Your risk of needing a knee revision is higher if you’re overweight or if you engage in high impact physical activity. Both of these conditions put extra stress on your knee and can accelerate the wear-and-tear process. 

If you had a knee replacement and have increasing knee pain, instability, swelling, or other signs of inflammation, make an appointment at LA Orthopaedic Specialists for evaluation and personalized care. 

What happens during a knee revision?

Knee revision surgery takes longer than a traditional knee replacement. While you’re under general anesthesia, your surgeon makes an incision in your knee to access your joint. They carefully remove your damaged or degraded prosthetics. 

They also examine your bones and other tissue, carefully removing any damaged tissue and creating a smooth surface. When your bones are ready, your surgeon attaches your new knee prosthetics. 

In some cases, your surgeon may need to provide a cadaveric bone graft to address significant bone loss. Finally, they close your incisions and bandage your knee. 

What should I expect while recovering from a knee revision?

Recovering from a knee revision can take up to six months and is similar to recovering from a knee replacement. 

You spend a few days in the hospital and can get up and walk around with a walker or crutches almost right away. In some cases, weight-bearing might be limited to begin with to allow for bone growth. 

Your doctor prescribes medicine to prevent infection and reduce your pain. You start physical therapy within a few days of your surgery to help your muscles and connective tissue stay supple. 

Over time, your physical therapy increases to help you rebuild strength and regain your full range of motion so you can return to your regular activities. 

If you’re having problems with your knee following a replacement surgery, call LA Orthopaedic Specialists or make an appointment online today.