healthy knees

Total Knee Replacement Revision

What Is Total Knee Revision Surgery?

A revision of a total knee replacement means that all or part of your inserts need to be revised as problems or wear over time can cause internal issues with your knee. Knee replacements resurface the whole joint with man-made parts, which you’ll have for the rest of your life. As these man-made parts see regular use there is often wear that occurs to these parts. Plastic inserts may shift or release particles into the knee joint which can decay bone over time and become unstable. Our knee revision specialists at The Joint Replacement Center of Scottsdale can help guide you through this complex surgery.

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Diagnosis

The knee revision experts at The Joint Replacement Center of Scottsdale will use a thorough physical evaluation along with diagnostic tests such as MRI or X-ray to determine your need for revision knee surgery. These are performed to see if there is any loosening or a change in the position of the knee components and to help us understand why the knee has failed. Common symptoms of a failed knee replacement include pain, swelling, stiffness and a loss of range of motion in the area, even well after the procedure.

About Knee Revision Surgery

Following anesthesia, we begin the procedure which typically takes between 2-3 hours. We follow the original incision and expose your knee joint to examine the soft tissue and look for signs of infection. We will assess the components of the knee to determine which parts need to be revised. Original implants will be removed and we’ll proceed with preparing the bone surfaces for the revision implant, adding metal augments or blocks if significant bone loss has occurred. Lastly, we will insert the new implant and repair any surrounding tissue that may be damaged. A final test of the joint motion is conducted before closing your wound and preparing you for recovery. All while utilizing MAKO robotic technology.

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Dr Martin performing knee surgery