What is revision joint replacement?
Revision joint replacement is corrective surgery to replace or repair a joint prosthesis when you continue to have pain after a total joint replacement or your original prosthesis fails. During revision surgery, Dr. Moore removes and replaces all or part of the original prosthesis.
Why might I need revision joint replacement?
The most common problems that lead to a revision joint replacement include:
Infection
An infection may develop on or around the prosthesis, causing bone degeneration and joint instability. You may develop an infection right after your initial total joint replacement surgery.
However, the problem isn’t always associated with the original replacement procedure. You can still develop an infection many years after your surgery if bacteria invades your body.
Loose prosthesis
The bond between your bone and the prosthetic implant can come loose, causing instability and pain.
Dislocation
When your prosthesis doesn’t stay aligned in the joint, the pieces become dislocated. Scar tissue and weak muscles can cause the prosthetic parts to get out of alignment.
Fractures
Though not as common as a dislocated or loose prosthesis, the bone around the prosthesis may fracture. As a result, the implant loosens, and you need revision surgery.
Aging prosthesis
Joint replacements typically last a long time — 10-15 years for about 85% of patients — but they eventually wear out.
What happens during revision joint replacement surgery?
Revision joint replacement is a more complex procedure than your original total joint replacement surgery. As a result, it requires detailed planning and specialized implants to achieve the best results.
Dr. Moore may need to replace one piece of your prosthesis or the entire joint. In many cases, he must resurface the bones and repair damaged ligaments.
If you have an infection, your revision joint replacement procedure depends on the extent of the contamination. Dr. Moore may treat it, clean the metal pieces, and replace the spacer with a new plastic piece.
When an infection becomes well established deep in the joint, Dr. Moore must completely remove your original joint prosthesis. Then he inserts a spacer between the bones that contains an antibiotic. After you fully heal, you will have a second surgery to implant a new joint prosthesis.
If you had a total joint replacement and you begin to experience pain or discomfort, call Dr. Moore at (602) 456-1835.