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Synopsis

Do your joints hurt even after a joint replacement surgery? If yes, then you may need a revision joint surgery. Here, we will explore everything you may need to know about revision joint surgery, specifically revision hip and knee replacement surgeries, including what procedures it follows, risks and complications, and the top healthcare institution, Gleneagles Hospitals in Bangalore.

Introduction

With time, joint replacement implants can get affected due to wear and tear, infections, or any other complication, which eventually results in improper implant functioning as intended. These functioning errors may lead to discomfort, instability, and reduced mobility, which is corrected by the revision procedure. As the surgery is done to correct the previous one, both hip and knee revision surgeries require the finest care and advanced medical expertise from a trusted healthcare provider like Gleneagles Hospitals, a trusted companion in this journey towards gaining a pain-free hip and knee.

What is Revision Hip And Knee Arthroplasty In Bangalore?

Revision hip and knee replacement is a form of surgery in which the previously implanted joint replacement is either replaced or revised. It becomes necessary in the event of a failed initial implant because of such complications as loosening, infection, wear, or instability. The intervention helps restore function in the joint (Hip or knee), reduce pain, and improve the quality of life by the use of a new replacement implant appropriate for the needs of the individual.

Both procedures are more intricate than the initial joint replacement operations because the surgeon can potentially have to contend with issues like bone loss, infection, or distorted anatomy from the original implant. Revision surgery demands a customised strategy to address every patient's circumstances and provide the most optimal result.

Why Choose Revision Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery?

The revision hip and knee replacement surgery is specifically designed for individuals with failed previous knee or hip implants due to various reasons. Below is the list of these reasons that require a revision surgery:

  • Continuous Pain: One of the main reasons for opting for revision surgery of the hip and knee is continuous severe pain, even after a successful replacement surgery. This pain can severely limit their ability to move around or do everyday activities. This is a result of loosening or wear & tear to the implant.
  • Implant Wear and Tear: The implant is generally made up of metal, plastic, or ceramic, which, over time, loses its strength and degrades, causing discomfort, inflammation, and even damage to surrounding bones and tissues. In revision surgery, this worn-out part is removed and replaced with more durable and all-new materials.
  • Instability and Loss of Function: In some cases, a few patients can feel instability or feel that their new joint is not as stable as it needs to be, this can be due to the improper alignment of the new implant. In knee replacement, it can lead to the inability to lift or bear weight or bend. However, hip replacement can hinder even daily activities.
  • Infection: Although a rare condition, infection can be a serious complication of hip and knee replacement. An infected hip or knee replacement implant can cause pain, swelling, fever, and, in severe cases, failure of the implant. In these cases, revision of the implant becomes important.
  • Osteolysis: The bone around a joint implant may become and eventually deteriorate over time, this condition is known as osteolysis. This is a condition caused by the immune response of the body. In hip replacement, osteolysis is particularly problematic when the femur may not hold the new implant as securely as it should.
Why Choose Revision Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery?

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Preparation for Revision Hip and Knee Replacement:

Proper planning and several medical tests are essential before Revision Hip and Knee Arthroplasty in Bangalore, is important to get a successful outcome. This is done in these simple steps:

  • Medical History Review: Your medical history, such as past surgeries, symptoms, and underlying conditions, will be evaluated by your healthcare provider. Past surgeries are important because they enable the surgeon to prepare for possible complications.
  • Imaging Tests: X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs, and even an electrocardiogram are performed to determine the severity of the implant failure and the condition of the bone. These procedures allow the surgeon to see the precise location and nature of the failure, allowing for more accurate planning of the revision surgery.
  • Blood Tests: Blood tests are usually performed to assess various biological functions of the body, such as kidney function, clotting, and general health. The surgeon must be certain that the patient is in the best possible health before surgery.
  • Medications: Certain medications, specifically blood thinners, might need to be discontinued temporarily before surgery, but only if advised by your doctor. It is crucial to go over all your medications with your doctor to avoid the risk of complications.
  • Fasting: Patients might need to fast before surgery to reduce the risk of complications from anaesthesia.
  • Allergies: Let the healthcare provider know about any allergies so that they can make an informed decision to secure safety during the surgery. This involves allergies to medicines, latex, or anaesthetic.

Revision Hip and Knee Procedure

The revision hip and knee procedure is typically performed under general or regional anaesthesia in a hospital setting with specialised and modern surgical equipment. These are the steps that are generally followed for Revision Hip And Knee Arthroplasty In Bangalore:

Incision and Hip or Knee Exposure

  • Hip Revision: A cut is made to reach the hip joint. The old implant is removed by the surgeon, and the hip socket is ready for a new metal shell. The femoral component is also taken out, and the bone is redesigned to accommodate the new implant. A new femoral head is attached to the stem to constitute the new joint.
  • Knee Revision: In this case, the incision is made at the knee joint and damaged components of the bone will be removed. The femur and tibia bones are adjusted according to the trial components to test the fit. The new implants are then fitted in the knee joint and aligned properly.

Removal of the Old Implant:

Both procedures include the careful removal of old implants, such as a hip or knee. The removal can sometimes become a complicated procedure due to complex implant fixation, bone quality, or infections. If infection is the cause of revision, a two-phase surgery will be required. The first will be treating the infection site with antibiotics, and the second will be removal of the implant.

Insertion of New Implant:

For hip revision, a new metal shell or the new implant will be inserted into the hip socket, and the femoral part is replaced, while in knee revision, the new femoral and tibial parts are inserted using the cement or press-fit method.

Recovery and Aftercare:

Recovery from the Revision Hip and Knee Arthroplasty in Bangalore is the most important part of the surgery. Pain management and physiotherapy need to be started after 24 hours of the surgery. The recovery period may vary from person to person, but usually, it may take at least 3 months to gain pre-surgery mobility and stability. During this period, regular rehabilitation sessions and follow-ups are done as the aftercare procedure. Patients will also be provided with a list of instructions on the exercises and mild activities they can do to reduce stiffness and strengthen their overall muscles and bones.

Risk and Complications After Revision Surgery:

Although Hip and knee revision surgery in Bangalore is one of the most successful replacement surgeries, it may carry some risks and complications with it, which include:

Infection: Surgical site infection can weaken the implant. If infection is not controlled, it could necessitate further surgery. 

Blood Clots: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE) can occur in some individuals. 

Dislocation or Instability: This may occur if the implant pieces are not well aligned or if the surrounding muscles are not strong. 

Implant Failure: Even after revision, there is a chance that the new implant will fail or loosen over time. Causes of this condition generally include overuse or bad bone quality, which may lead to this. 

Scarring: Scarring is unavoidable with any surgery, including revision hip and knee replacement. Most scars will eventually fade, but some patients can develop thick, elevated scars called keloids, which can be painful. 

Lung or Heart Problems Caused by Anesthesia: Anesthesia has the potential to impact the respiratory system, which can lead to breathing difficulties or low oxygen saturation and put pressure on the heart, particularly during lengthy procedures.

Why Choose Gleneagles Hospital for Hip and Knee Arthroplasty in Bangalore:

Gleneagles Hospital is one of the top knee revision surgery hospitals offering the best Revision Hip replacement Surgery in Bangalore. Here are some key reasons why Gleneagles is a trusted choice for their patients:

  • Expert care with transparency in the procedure.
  • Personalised approach for each patient, as Gleneagles understands that a one-size-fits-all scheme doesn’t work in these surgeries.
  • Home of some of the most highly skilled and experienced doctors in Bangalore.
  • Equipped with modern and advanced technology and infrastructure to provide their patients with the best treatment they deserve.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Why is Gleneagles considered the best for revision hip replacement surgery in Bangalore?

Due to its modern and innovative approach towards surgery, Gleneagles provides the best Revision Hip replacement Surgery in Bangalore.

Q2. What is the rate of success in revision hip and knee replacement surgery?

The success rate of the revision procedure is typically high, particularly when the surgery is undertaken by experienced doctors, but varies according to health conditions.

Q3. What are the benefits of revision hip and knee arthroplasty in Bangalore?

Bangalore provides top-class medical infrastructure, experienced orthopaedics, and up-to-date technology for successful revision hip and knee replacements.

Q4. Can I travel following revision hip or knee replacement surgery?

You may travel after complete recovery and clearance from your doctor, but skip long flights or prolonged walking during the initial recovery phase.

Q5. Is physical therapy necessary following revision surgery?

Yes, physical therapy is essential for recovery to restore strength and mobility and to have the joint work well following surgery.

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