Joint Revision Replacement

Joint revision is a type of surgery performed on a patient who already has an existing artificial joint that was implanted during a joint replacement procedure. There are several reasons why a patient might need joint revision surgery after a joint replacement.

One of the most common reasons is that their existing implant, also referred to as a prosthesis, has reached the end of its expected lifespan, which is approximately 15 – 20 years for most artificial joints. Another reason why revision surgery might be needed is that the artificial implant from the original joint replacement procedure has become dislocated or there is an infection.

Before moving forward with joint revision surgery, the surgeon will take X-rays or perform other tests in order to better understand what is happening. The doctor will also check for scar tissue in the area and consider what surgical techniques he or she will use. The joint revision surgeon might also consult with the joint replacement doctor about the original joint replacement procedure.

If a patient has had a total joint replacement surgery, such as a knee replacement, they should always take note of any changes that might be happening. For example, although they may have had knee replacement surgery that was successful and brought pain relief when it was performed several years earlier, the knee has started to lock up. Or in another example, a patient may have had hip replacement surgery that left them nearly pain-free. However, now the artificial joint has begun to feel loose and uncomfortable.

As with the joint replacement surgery, the surgeon will provide patient education and preoperative care so the patient understands the revision procedure as well as the recovery and rehabilitation process. After revision surgery, a patient will work with a physical therapist as part of the rehabilitation process.