Joint Replacement - Revision Joint Replacement

Errors occur in component positioning and limb alignment using the conventional alignment jigs can be minimized through navigation instrumentation. Computer assisted surgery helps surgeons align the patient's bones and joint implants with a degree of accuracy not possible with naked eye.

These surgeries are done in a specially designed operation theater known as ‘Ultra clean Air-Class 100’ environment to minimize the infection rate. The world class equipments make our operation theater comparable to the best in India. Our doctors have received best training in countries like U.K. and Germany. We keep ourselves updated with the latest technologies and have been employing them here successfully for the benefits of those affected.

Joint replacement surgery is also known as arthroplasty, which is very common surgery performed successfully by our surgeons. In knee or hip replacement surgery, the artificial joint is made out of metal and plastic. In the case of joint replacement in the hand, the new joint is most commonly composed of silicone rubber or the patient's own tissues such as a portion of tendon.

There are several types of arthritis but when advanced enough they all end up in severe damage to surface of the bones at the joint. That surface becomes rough and irregular. When the bones in that arthritis joint are forced to move against each other, the rubbing of the rough surfaces causes pain.

In late arthritis, the main problem is roughened bone surfaces at the joint. The logical solutions available would be restoring a smooth surface to the bones. Restoring a new smooth surface is what is done is joint replacement surgery.

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with revision total knee replacement. Because the procedure is longer and more complex than primary total knee replacement, it has a greater risk of complications. Before your surgery, your doctor will discuss each of the risks with you and will take specific measures to help avoid potential complications.

The possible risks and complications of revision surgery include:

• Poor wound healing
• Reduced range of motion or stiffness in the knee
• Infection in the wound or the new prosthesis
• Bleeding
• Blood clots
• Bone fracture during surgery
• Damage to nerves or blood vessels
• Pulmonary embolism—a blood clot in the lungs
• Medical problems such as heart attack, lung complications, or stroke

There are several types of arthritis but when advanced enough they all end up in severe damage to surface of the bones at the joint. That surface becomes rough and irregular. When the bones in that arthritis joint are forced to move against each other, the rubbing of the rough surfaces causes pain.

Pain Management
After surgery, you will feel some pain, but you will be given medication to make you feel as comfortable as possible. Pain management is an important part of your recovery. Although there are exceptions, walking, bearing weight, and knee movement will begin soon after surgery.

Physical Therapy
A physical therapist will give you specific exercises to strengthen your leg and restore range of motion so that you may begin walking and resume other daily activities as soon as possible after surgery.

To restore movement in your knee and leg, your doctor may also use a continuous passive motion machine (CPM). This device is a knee support that slowly moves your knee while you are in bed. Some doctors believe that use of a CPM helps restore early range of motion.

Blood Clot Prevention
Your doctor may prescribe one or more measures to prevent blood clots and decrease leg swelling. These may include special graded compression stockings, inflatable leg coverings (compression boots), and blood thinners.

Foot and ankle movement also is encouraged immediately following surgery to increase blood flow in your leg muscles to help prevent leg swelling and blood clots.

Preventing Infection
One of the most serious complications facing patients who undergo revision surgery is infection. Although infection occurs in only a small percentage of patients, it can prolong or limit full recovery. To prevent infection, you will be given antibiotics both before and after surgery. The risk of infection is slightly higher after revision surgery than after primary total knee replacement.