Revision Knee Replacement
A knee replacement may occasionally require further investigation or revision because of loosening, infection, instability, wear, fracture or persistent pain.
Why a knee replacement may be painful
Pain after knee replacement does not always mean the implant has failed. Possible causes include loosening, infection, instability, stiffness, wear, fracture or problems arising outside the knee. Establishing the cause is essential before treatment is recommended.
Revision assessment may involve detailed imaging, previous operation records and investigation of pain, stiffness or implant performance.
Complex assessment
Understand why a replacement is causing concern.
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02 / What to know
Detailed investigation
Assessment includes the history of the original operation, the timing and pattern of symptoms, examination and review of imaging. Blood tests, aspiration or additional scans may be requested depending on the suspected problem.
Bring previous operation reports, implant labels, X-rays and correspondence if available.
What revision surgery can involve
Revision surgery may replace one component, several components or the entire knee replacement. Bone loss, ligament stability and the condition of surrounding tissues influence the implants and reconstruction required.
Some situations, particularly infection, may require treatment in stages rather than one operation.
A more complex recovery
Revision knee replacement is generally more complex than primary replacement. Operating time, hospital care, rehabilitation and recovery can differ considerably between patients and procedures.
Dr Fraser will explain the proposed approach, alternatives, expected goals and individual risks before a decision is made. Robotic assistance may be used in selected cases.
Discuss your symptoms and treatment options.
Revision assessment may involve detailed imaging, previous operation records and investigation of pain, stiffness or implant performance.
Revision Knee Replacement FAQs
Helpful starting points before your consultation. Advice and recovery plans are always tailored to the individual.
Why can a knee replacement fail?
Possible causes include loosening, infection, instability, wear, fracture or persistent pain. Finding the cause is essential because it determines whether revision surgery may help and what it would involve.
Is revision surgery different from a first knee replacement?
Yes. Revision surgery is often more technically complex and may require specialised implants, reconstruction of bone loss or more than one operation. The plan depends on the individual problem.
What previous information should I bring?
Bring earlier operation reports, implant information, X-rays, scans, blood-test results and correspondence if available. These records can assist investigation and planning.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Please bring your referral, Medicare details, relevant X-rays or scans, a current medication list and any useful reports from previous treatment or surgery. Contact the practice before your visit if you are unsure what is required.
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