The average lifespan of a total knee replacement is 15-20 years, making it one of the most successful orthopaedic procedures we perform. However, if a patient had a knee replacement surgery in their younger years, they may need a second operation to clean, fix, or replace the implant.

This is called knee revision surgery. 

Why Do You Need Knee Replacement Revision Surgery?

Knee revision surgery is necessary for someone who’s knee implant is beginning to fail. The most common reasons for revision surgery are:

• Wear: After 15-20 years of use, a knee implant will experience normal wear and tear. If friction over time causes the implant to loosen or break, knee revision surgery will be necessary. 

• Instability or Stiffness: Sometimes, the surrounding soft tissue of the knee cannot support the implant. In other cases, the scar tissue from your total knee replacement can prevent patients from regaining their full range of motion. In both these instances, revision surgery is needed to correct the issue.

• Infection: Only 1% of all patients have an infection from their total knee replacement. When those rare infections do occur, a knee revision surgery is always needed - of one kind or another.

Revision surgery is more complex than a total knee replacement. This is because:

• The original implant must be removed, which will have grown into the bone.

• Once the implant is removed, there is less bone to work with when inserting the new prosthesis.

• In some cases, Dr. Cafferky and his team may need to complete a bone graft to support the new implant.

• Revision surgery requires more preoperative planning, surgical skill, and specialized tools.

Knee revision implants don’t last as long as their initial total knee replacement, having a typical lifespan of ten years.

Signs You Need Knee Revision Surgery 

There are a few warning signs that your knee implant is starting to fail, including:

• Reduced stability or diminished function of the knee

• Increased pain or stiffness

• Implant loosening or dislocation

• Swelling that could indicate an infection

When the knee implant begins to show signs of failure, it’s important to immediately contact your orthopaedic physician. Knee implant failure will only worsen over time and can damage the surrounding bone if left untreated.

Contact Dr. Cafferky to Discuss Knee Revision Surgery

Revision surgery is complex and requires greater surgery skill. Dr. Cafferky is the leading knee revision orthopaedic surgeon in Eagle and Summit County, helping his patients stay active and move forward. 

Contact Dr. Cafferky today via our online portal or by calling (970) 476-1100. He and his team will discuss your knee revision options and recommend the treatment plan right for you and your lifestyle.