How is a painful knee replacement investigated?
Assessment may include examination, weight-bearing X-rays, long-leg alignment imaging, CT, blood tests and — when infection is a concern — aspiration or tissue sampling. Previous operative records and implant details can also be important.
Why is revision knee replacement more complex?
Revision often needs more constrained implants, stems, cones or augments to manage bone loss and ligament instability. The reconstruction is planned around the remaining bone, soft tissues, alignment and reason for failure.
What if infection is found?
Infected knee replacements may require different strategies from mechanical failure, including staged surgery in some cases. Treatment is individual and often involves microbiology and multidisciplinary discussion.
What are the risks?
Risks include infection, blood clots, stiffness, persistent pain, instability, fracture, wound problems, nerve or blood-vessel injury, implant failure and the possibility of further surgery. Risk varies with the complexity of the reconstruction and general health.
