KNEE REVISION SURGERY
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Overview
Advancements in medical technologies and refinement of surgical approaches ensure that patients can benefit from better outcomes with shorter recovery times and lower rates of prosthesis failure. Even in young patients, an artificial knee can last a lifetime. Unfortunately, in a few cases, there are implant failures or the implant bearing can become worn and may need to be replaced. This is unlikely to occur before 15-20 years.
Joint revision surgeries are generally very complex and more challenging procedures than partial knee replacement or total knee replacement surgeries, as each case is unique. This is where our collaborative team approach combining the orthopaedic expertise of all partners at Cape Hip & Knee Practice in Cape Town, South Africa, is of benefit to you.
Failure of a previous knee replacement or special implants may result from a combination of repetitive movement, poor bone health and loss of muscle or ligament strength. Persistent infection can also require implant exchange.
The three most common causes of complex revision surgery includes:
- Loosening of the prosthesis due to friction over time.
- Components break due to wear and tear.
- While infection is rare, complex revision surgery is required when it does occur.
While revision total knee replacement surgery is very complex, the Cape Hip & Knee Practice's multidisciplinary team approach helps to achieve the best possible outcome for our patients. The complexities of each case are evaluated by our team of orthopaedic surgeons prior to surgery at Life Orthopaedic hospital in Cape Town, South Africa. As with all revision surgeries the risks are higher than with primary hip or knee replacement operations and this includes infection, mechanical failure, blood clots and pain. Patients can rest assured that everything from the age of the patient and their occupation to special implants, bone grafts and the instruments used, will be taken into consideration.
Any extensive surgery to your knee joint will need some time to heal and recover afterwards. This does mean that you will have a short hospital stay and physical therapy to help you on your way to long term health and healing. During your stay, the nursing staff will help monitor your wound, pain and swelling and will be available to assist you as much as they can.
To help you prepare for your procedure read more about what to expect and the process involved on pathway to surgery.