Total joint replacement, also called total joint arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which the worn out or damaged surfaces of the joint are removed and replaced with new artificial parts. Primary total joint replacement is considered a treatment option if your knee or hip pain cannot be managed any longer by conservative treatment. Total joint replacement surgery is commonly indicated for severe osteoarthritis of the knee or hip joint. Osteoarthritis is a most common form of arthritis in which the joint cartilage gradually wears away. The goal of the surgery is to relieve pain and restore the alignment and function of your knee.
Revision arthroplasty or revision joint replacement is a surgical procedure performed in individuals who already had primary total joint replacement surgery but had certain complications that led to failure of the previous surgery.
In revision joint replacement, all or part of previously implanted joint is replaced with a new artificial joint. When a replacement joint wears out, loosens or develops a problem, it can be replaced in a revision joint replacement surgery.
Revision surgery is performed for various reasons such as
- Persisting pain after the surgery
- Wearing of implants or plastic lining
- Instability
- Loosening of either the femoral, tibial or patella component
- Surgical site infections
- Osteolysis (bone loss)
- Stiffness