Treatment / Revision / Revision Knee Arthroplasty

MOTION PRESERVING

REVISION | LAS VEGAS

Revision Knee Arthroplasty

Dr. Andrew Lee, MD | Nevada Spine Clinic, Las Vegas, Nevada

Understanding Knee Replacement Failure

Total and partial knee replacements are durable implants but can fail over time due to specific complications requiring revision surgery. Understanding the cause of failure is essential for planning successful revision.


Dr. Andrew Lee at Nevada Spine Clinic in Las Vegas performs knee revision surgery including complex reconstructions referred from other surgeons.

Reasons for Knee Revision Surgery

  • Aseptic Loosening: Loss of fixation between the implant and bone due to wear particle-induced bone resorption.
  • Periprosthetic Joint Infection: Deep knee infection requiring staged surgical treatment.
  • Polyethylene Wear: Wear of the plastic tibial insert causing pain and bone loss.
  • Instability: Inadequate ligament balance causing recurrent giving way.
  • Stiffness: Severe post-operative stiffness unresponsive to therapy.
  • Periprosthetic Fracture: Fracture around the implant requiring revision.

When Revision Is Indicated

Knee revision surgery is recommended when a failed knee replacement cannot be managed non-operatively. Dr. Lee performs comprehensive diagnostic workup before planning revision.

Revision Knee Arthroplasty

Knee revision surgery varies widely in complexity. Dr. Andrew Lee performs knee revision cases at Southern Hills Hospital in Las Vegas.

Failed components are carefully removed and bone defects are addressed with augme or bone graft. New revision components with stems achieve stable fixation in the remaining bone.

Revision for infection is performed in two stages. Stage one places an antibiotic cement spacer. Stage two reimplants the definitive revision components after infection has been eradicated.

The primary goals of this procedure are to:
  • Remove failed components and address the cause of failure
  • Restore stable functioning knee replacement
  • Relieve pain and restore mobility
  • Achieve durable long-term fixation

Potential Risks

  • Higher complication rates than primary replacement.
  • Bone loss from component removal.
  • Infection: Risk is elevated in revision cases.
  • Stiffness more common following revision.
  • Instability more challenging to address in revision cases.
  • Greater blood loss than primary surgery.

Postoperative Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery following knee revision is longer than primary replacement. Weight bearing and activity restrictions are individualized to the reconstruction performed.

Most patients require three to six months for meaningful functional recovery.

What to Expect After Surgery

Pain relief following successful knee revision is typically meaningful. Functional outcomes may be more variable than primary replacement.

Regular follow-up monitors implant stability and guides rehabilitation.

Do not soak your wound.

No bathtub, swimming, or hot tub until cleared by Dr. Lee.

Wound Care and Medication Management

Follow wound care instructions carefully. Monitor for signs of infection. Contact Nevada Spine Clinic immediately for wound concerns.

Take all medications as directed including blood clot prevention medication.

Activity Guidelines After Surgery

Activity restrictions are individualized to the revision performed. Dr. Lee reviews specific guidelines at discharge and follow-up appointments.

Contact Nevada Spine Clinic or the emergency room for severe pain, swelling, fever, or wound changes.

CALL US IF YOU EXPERIENCE

Ready to discuss your options with Dr. Lee?

No bathtub, swimming, or hot tub until cleared by Dr. Lee.

Book a Consultation

Dr. Andrew Lee, MD | Nevada Spine Clinic, Las Vegas

Your information is private and will never be shared.