Revision Knee Replacement in New York City
What is a revision knee replacement?
Whether you’ve had a total knee replacement or a partial knee replacement, you may notice over time that your knee replacement is causing you pain or no longer functioning as it used to. If you are experiencing knee pain or other complications from your initial knee replacement, you may require a second knee replacement surgery, known as a revision knee replacement. Revision knee replacement is a procedure that can help correct a failing knee replacement and involves replacing some or all components of the initial knee replacement.
Why is a revision knee replacement needed?
Over time, a knee replacement implant may experience natural wear and tear or cause certain complications. A knee replacement may require revision if the initial replacement:
- Causes pain
- No longer functions appropriately
- Has loose or worn out parts
- Impacts your daily routines and activities
- Becomes infected
- Causes the knee to become unstable
- Causes stiffness of the knee
- Has a fractured bone around the prosthetics
Speak with your doctor to find out more about when a revision knee replacement is needed and if a revision knee replacement may be right for you.
What does a revision knee replacement involve?
A revision knee replacement, also known as a revision knee arthroplasty, involves replacing the components of a knee implant that are causing complications. A revision knee placement procedure typically takes more time than the initial knee replacement procedure and begins with your doctor carefully creating an incision at the site of your initial knee replacement. Your doctor will then move surrounding structures, such as your kneecap and tendons, in order to reach your knee joint. Before moving forward with the procedure, your doctor will check for any signs of infection and assess which parts of the initial knee replacement are damaged, loose, or have drifted from their original position. Next, your doctor will gently take out the initial implant and any other materials used during the initial procedure. Once the original implant is removed, your doctor will “prepare the bone” by removing any damaged surfaces of the bone. Once the bone is ready, your doctor will install the new prosthetic components, carefully place all surrounding structures of the knee back in their original place, and close the incision. Recovery time after a revision knee replacement will vary from patient to patient. Speak with your doctor to learn more about recovery time after surgery and what will be needed during the recovery process.
What are the benefits of a revision knee replacement?
A revision knee replacement is beneficial because it can help restore a knee replacement that is failing, causing pain, negative reactions, or other serious issues. A revision knee replacement can help:
- Alleviate pain caused by a failing knee replacement
- Reestablish the functionality of your knee replacement
- Restore mobility and range of motion
- Improve your quality of life
If your knee replacement is causing you pain and you are interested in a revision knee replacement, a consultation with an experienced orthopaedic specialist may be the first step towards helping you regain mobility, return to your normal daily activities, and get back in the game. Here, at our practice, Dr. David Mayman provides personalized treatment solutions paired with cutting-edge technology to deliver total patient care and optimal results. Call 212.774.2024 to schedule an appointment.