Although most replacement joints will last for up to 20 years, there are times that a replacement joint needs to be removed and a new one implanted. Each year, thousands of hip and joint replacements are done by orthopedic surgeons but now many patients return after 10, 15, or 20 years to have new joint replacements. Here are some reasons for doing a second joint replacement surgery.
Causes for Revision
When a replaced hip or knee joint needs to be replaced again, it is called joint replacement revision in Sacramento, CA. There are many reasons for a revision surgery to be done, including:
• Dislocation of the joint.
• A fracture to the leg near the joint.
• The replacement joint becoming loose.
• An infection at the site of the joint.
• An implant recall.
Signs of Joint Problems
There are symptoms which will indicate a problem with the implanted joint, such as:
• Sudden pain in the joint area.
• Difficulty moving.
• Decreased range of motion in the joint.
Any patient who had a joint replaced needs to contact his or her orthopedic surgeon if he or she notices these symptoms. After an examination that includes x-rays, a joint replacement revision may be necessary.
Joint replacement revision is a more complex surgery than the initial joint replacement so it is imperative that an orthopedic surgeon experienced in revision surgeries is contacted. Fortunately, you can contact us due to Dr. Fujii’s experience with this type of surgery.
• Avoiding Revision
• After an initial joint replacement, patients can help their new joints last longer if they:
• Avoid high-impact activities.
• Maintain their weight.
• Take antibiotics if a bacterial infection develops.
• See orthopedic surgeons for any pain that they experience.
• Have routine examinations by their orthopedic surgeons a few years after the initial replacement.
By following these care tips, you may be able to avoid surgery to have another joint implanted.
