Knee Revision Surgeon in San Diego, La Jolla, East County, CA
Although total knee replacement surgery is successful, sometimes the procedure can fail due to various reasons and may require revision surgery. Joseph Mitchell, M.D. provides diagnosis and individualized non-operative and operative treatment plans in San Diego, La Jolla, East County, CA. Joseph Mitchell, M.D. also provides highly specialized care during and after the surgery. Contact Joseph Mitchell, M.D.’s office for an appointment today!
What is Revision Knee Replacement?
Revision knee replacement involves replacing a portion (or all) of a previously placed knee prosthesis. Although total knee replacement is successful in 90% of cases, sometimes the procedure can fail, and may require a second revision surgery.
Indications for Revision Knee Replacement
Revision knee replacement surgery may be advised if you have one or more of the following conditions:
- Trauma to the knee joint resulting in fracture or ligament injury
- Progressive joint disease after partial knee replacement
- Worn out or loosened prosthesis
- Knee instability
- Infection in the prosthetic joint
- Bone loss (or lysis) around the knee replacement
- Extreme stiffness in the knee
Revision Knee Replacement Procedure
The surgery is performed most commonly under general anesthesia. Your surgeon makes an incision over your knee to expose the knee joint, typically using the original scar. Scar tissue is removed as warranted prior to extracting the old femoral and tibial components. The joint is then evaluated for bone loss and ligament integrity. Metal “augments” can be used to fill voids of lost bone. The reconstruction process is then started by placing a new tibial component, followed by a femur. A new plastic insert is then placed, linking the femur and tibia. The new knee is tested for range of motion and balance. Once satisfied the final implants are attached to the bone with cement.
Postoperative Care Following Revision Knee Replacement
Rehabilitation begins immediately following surgery. A physical therapist will teach you specific exercises to strengthen your leg and restore knee movement. You will initially require crutches or a walker for safety purposes. You can wean from these devices as soon as you (and your therapist) feel that it is safe to do so. Physical therapy is a crucial part of your recovery and will have both in home and in person components.
Risks and Complications of Revision Knee Replacement
The possible risks and complications associated with total knee replacement surgery include:
- Knee stiffness
- Infection requiring antibiotics and/or further surgery (6% chance)
- Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
- Nerve and blood vessel damage (skin numbness is most common)
- Ligament injuries
- Patellar (kneecap) dislocation
- Implant failure over time
- Loosening of the implant
If you would like to have additional information on the treatment of various knee conditions or would like to learn more about revision knee replacement, please contact Joseph Mitchell, M.D., serving the communities of San Diego, La Jolla, East County, CA.