Re-do & Revision Replacements
Re-do and revision joint replacements are procedures that cure continued pain or disability after a prior knee or hip replacement. These procedures require complex surgical techniques and a larger high-skilled team. As such, these procedures are completed in hospitals where you can expect to stay for 1-2 nights to jump start your recovery.
FAQs
What is the most common reason to need a re-do or revision knee or hip replacement?
The most common reason my patients have their knee or hip replacement redone is persistent pain due to either infection around their previous replacement, loosening of the replacement parts, or some other cause (e.g. dislocation or fracture).
How long do I stay in the hospital after re-do or revision joint replacement?
Most of my patients are able to go home the day after surgery. Some patients will stay two nights. I strongly discourage my patients from going to a nursing / extended recovery facility after surgery as the research has shown that these are associated with worse outcomes compared to patients who go back to their homes after surgery.
How do I know when I need my knee or hip replacement redone?
If you've been told by an orthopedic surgeon that your knee or hip replacement is failing then you should visit a fellowship-trained joint replacement surgeon to learn about your non-surgical and surgical treatment options.
My general recommendation is if you're having more bad days than good days then that is a good sign that it may be time to have surgery.
What we're learned from our research is that patients with BMI < 40, non-smokers, and who don't have diabetes tend to have the most favorable outcomes after surgery.
How quick is the recovery after re-do or revision joint replacement?
Generally, most patients are doing most things three months after surgery. The first few days you'll spend relaxing at home managing your pain. By the end of the first week, you're moving around pretty good and participating in your home exercises. Sometimes, I prescribe a period of limited weight bearing to let the bone heal around the new parts and movement restrictions. Formal physical therapy (PT) is generally not needed but I will certainly prescribe PT if indicated.
What does the actual re-do or revision joint replacement surgery entail?
After an incision is made through your prior scar, the joint is entered. The previously placed knee or hip replacement parts are removed and your bone is prepared to accept the new replacement parts. Re-do or revision joint replacement surgery takes about four hours to complete.
What is the success rate of re-do or revision joint replacement?
The success rate for re-do or revision joint replacement surgery is good. A well done redo can last for many years if done correctly.
