Revision Knee Replacement Surgery in Lincoln & Omaha, NE
Revision knee replacement is a surgical procedure performed to replace part or all of a previously implanted knee prosthesis with a new artificial joint. While total knee replacement is highly successful, implants may eventually fail due to wear, loosening, infection, or other complications, requiring a second surgery. Revision knee replacement is more complex than the initial procedure and is designed to restore stability, relieve pain, and improve knee function when a previous replacement is no longer working properly.
Matthew Byington, DO provides evaluation and treatment for failed or painful knee replacements in Lincoln and Omaha, including complex revision knee replacement procedures.
What Is Revision Knee Replacement?
Revision knee replacement involves removing one or more components of a previous knee implant and replacing them with new prosthetic parts. In some cases, all components are replaced; in others, only the worn or failed portion is revised.
The goal is to restore joint stability, correct alignment, and improve function when a prior knee replacement has deteriorated or failed.
When Is Revision Knee Replacement Recommended?
Revision knee replacement may be recommended for patients experiencing:
- Persistent or increasing knee pain after replacement
- Implant loosening or failure
- Infection in the prosthetic joint
- Knee instability or “giving way”
- Wear of implant components
- Bone loss around the implant (osteolysis)
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion
- Fracture around the implant
- Leg length discrepancy
Causes of Knee Replacement Failure
Common reasons a knee replacement may fail include:
- Implant wear over time
- Infection
- Trauma or injury to the knee
- Progressive bone loss
- Mechanical loosening of components
- Chronic inflammation or joint disease
Symptoms of a Failed Knee Replacement
Patients may experience:
- Increasing knee pain
- Swelling or inflammation
- Instability while walking
- Stiffness and reduced motion
- Difficulty bearing weight
- Audible clicking or grinding sensations
- Visible or functional deformity
How Revision Knee Replacement Is Performed
Revision surgery is performed under general anesthesia and may involve replacing one or all components of the previous implant.
Surgical steps may include:
- Incision over the previous surgical site
- Removal of existing femoral and tibial components
- Careful assessment and cleaning of bone surfaces
- Bone reconstruction using grafts or metal augments if needed
- Placement of new femoral and tibial components
- Insertion of a new polyethylene (plastic) liner
- Patellar resurfacing if required
- Verification of alignment, stability, and motion
- Placement of drains and closure of the incision
Because bone loss or damage may be present, specialized implants and techniques are often required.
Matthew Byington, DO Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon
Dr. Matthew Byington is a board certified Orthopedic Surgeon, specializing in minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques and sports medicine. He specializes in Shoulder, Knee and Elbow conditions, although he treats all orthopedic conditions.
Recovery After Revision Knee Replacement
Recovery typically requires a structured rehabilitation program:
- Early use of walker or crutches
- Pain management and swelling control
- Physical therapy starting shortly after surgery
- Use of continuous passive motion (CPM) machine in some cases
- Gradual increase in weight-bearing
- Strengthening of surrounding muscles
- Range-of-motion exercises
- Use of knee immobilizers during early recovery phases
Rehabilitation is essential for restoring function and mobility.
Benefits of Revision Knee Replacement
- Relief from chronic knee pain
- Improved joint stability
- Restoration of mobility
- Correction of implant-related problems
- Improved quality of life
- Ability to return to daily activities
Risks & Complications
As with all major surgeries, risks may include:
- Infection
- Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
- Knee stiffness
- Implant failure or loosening
- Nerve or blood vessel injury
- Bone loss or fracture
- Ligament injury
- Persistent pain or swelling
- Reduced range of motion
Why Choose Matthew Byington, DO for Revision Knee Replacement
Matthew Byington, DO specializes in complex primary and revision knee replacement surgery. His approach focuses on identifying the cause of implant failure, restoring stability, and improving long-term joint function through advanced reconstructive techniques.
Each treatment plan is customized based on bone quality, implant condition, and patient goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do knee replacements fail?
Common causes include loosening, infection, wear, or bone loss.
Is revision surgery more complex than the first replacement?
Yes, it often requires specialized techniques and implants.
How long is recovery?
Recovery may take longer than primary knee replacement and includes extensive rehabilitation.
Will I need physical therapy?
Yes, physical therapy is essential for recovery and function.
Can a failed knee replacement be fixed?
In most cases, revision surgery can significantly improve pain and function.
Restore Stability After Knee Replacement Failure
If you are experiencing pain, instability, or complications after a knee replacement, revision surgery may help restore function and improve quality of life.
Schedule a consultation with Matthew Byington, DO to evaluate your treatment options.