Knee joint disorders such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid and rheumatoid arthritis can cause chronic pain. A replacement of total knee replacement procedure is often seen as a life-altering procedure. Like any medical procedure, however, knee replacements may not always have a positive outcome. In certain cases, knee replacements may fail. This will force patients to seek alternative options to regain their quality of living and function. This article explores all the options that are available to you if your knee implant fails.
Comprehending Knee Failure
Failure of a replacement knee can be due to a number of reasons. The most common causes for failure are infection, loosening, instability, or misalignment. The vast majority of knee replacement procedures end well. However, around 5-10% may require further treatment due to complications. A failed knee implant can cause persistent pain, instability, or difficulty moving.
You should consult with an orthopedic surgeon if these problems persist to determine the underlying cause and possible alternatives to treatment.
1. Revision Knee Surgery As The First Line Of Defense
Revision surgery often becomes the first choice when a failed knee replacement occurs. Revision knee surgeries involve replacing total knee replacements with new implants. This procedure can correct problems such as implant misalignment, loosening, and tissue damage.
During revisions, the surgeon will replace a failed implant with a new one. In some instances, it may be necessary to use bone grafts to restore bone structure around a knee joint. Even though revision surgeries are effective in restoring the knee’s function, they may be more complex than primary replacements.
2. Partial Knee Repair
In certain circumstances, a partial replacement of the knee may be an effective alternative to a revision surgery. Partial knee replacement is when only the damaged area of the knee joint needs to be replaced. This option may be considered if a failure only affects a small area of the leg and the remaining joint is still healthy.
Partial knee replacement may have a shorter recovery time and may be a less invasive surgery than a revision. But it’s not right for everyone. Especially if you have extensive damage to the knee. Your surgeon assesses your condition to determine the best option for you.
3. Osteotomy, Or Realigning Of The Knee Joint
An osteotomy can be performed on younger patients who have a knee that is in relatively good shape. An osteotomy involves realigning or cutting the bones of the knee in order to shift weight away. This procedure may be used to delay a knee replacement operation or to correct specific problems caused by a failing implant, such a improper alignment.
Patients who are not eligible for revision surgery, due to their age, medical condition, or other reasons, may opt for osteotomy. Although it may not produce the same results as a total joint replacement, it is able to provide patients with isolated pain and improve mobility.
4. Stem Cell Therapy Or Biological Therapies
In recent years, biologic treatments such as platelet-rich plasma or stem cell injections have become popular as alternatives to surgical procedures. These treatments use the body’s healing properties to repair damaged skin, promote cartilage regrowth, and reduce inflammation.
For patients who have mild knee failure or are in the early stages of arthritis, biological therapy may be less invasive than a full revision. Many patients have reported improved pain and mobility as a result of these treatments, even though research into their effectiveness is still ongoing. The results of biological treatments can vary.
5. Physical Therapy And Lifestyle Modifications
In some cases, and especially when knee failure is caused by muscle weakness or instability, physical therapy helps restore function while relieving pain. A tailored physical therapy plan can focus on strengthening muscles around the joint, improving mobility, and improving overall flexibility. This nonsurgical approach is an excellent alternative for those patients who don’t want to undergo revision surgeries or are seeking conservative treatments.
Lifestyle modifications like weight management, avoiding impact-intensive activities, or using assistive devices, such as braces, can also improve symptoms and quality of living for patients with knee failure.
Conclusion
Although a failed joint replacement can be frustrating and a setback, there are options to help you improve your quality-of-life. You have many options for reducing pain and increasing mobility. These include partial knee implants, osteotomies, or revision surgeries. You can determine the best course of treatment for your situation by discussing your symptoms with an orthopedic surgeon.
If you’re dealing with knee failure, don’t give up. The right treatment can help you get back on your feet and enjoy an active lifestyle.