Revision Total Knee Replacement Surgery in North Wales by Dr Amir Azam, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
While most knee replacements last 10-15 years, some require a second operation due to wear, loosening or complications. This is known as revision knee replacement. As a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon with fellowship training in complex and revision knee surgery (MBBS, MS Orth, MRCS, FRCS Orth), I provide expert revision total knee replacement in North Wales to restore function and relieve pain.
What Is Revision Knee Replacement?
Revision total knee replacement involves removing the old knee prosthesis and replacing it with new, often more complex components. This procedure is more challenging than first-time surgery and requires advanced planning, special implants and sometimes bone grafts to rebuild the knee joint.
When Is Revision Surgery Needed?
You might need revision knee replacement if you experience:
- Loosening or wear of the knee implant
- Infection around the knee prosthesis
- Instability or persistent pain after primary surgery
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion
- Fractures around the implant (periprosthetic fractures)
Why Choose a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon in North Wales?
Revision knee surgery is highly specialised. As an experienced surgeon, I provide:
- Detailed diagnostic assessment with blood tests, imaging and joint aspiration where needed
- Access to modular revision implants designed for stability and longevity
- Advanced techniques for managing bone loss and restoring knee alignment
- Close collaboration with anaesthetists, microbiologists and physiotherapists
The Procedure
During revision surgery, the old components are carefully removed, any infection treated, and new implants fitted. In some cases, stems, augments or sleeves are used to improve fixation and alignment. If infection is present, staged surgery may be required to clear it before re-implanting a new prosthesis.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery after revision knee surgery may take longer than a primary replacement:
- Hospital stay: 4–6 days
- Walking aids: 6–8 weeks
- Full recovery: 6-12 months or more depending on bone and soft tissue healing
A structured physiotherapy programme improves outcomes and helps regain confidence.
Benefits and Risks
Benefits:
- Pain relief from failed implants
- Improved knee alignment and stability
- Prevention of further bone damage
Risks (higher than first-time surgery):
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Stiffness
- Fracture or ligament injury during implant removal
With careful planning and skilled technique, most patients achieve good results.
FAQs: Revision Total Knee Replacement
Q1: How do I know if my knee replacement is failing?
Ongoing pain, swelling, instability or stiffness are common signs. X-rays or blood tests can help diagnose the problem.
Q2: Can revision knee replacement restore full function?
Many patients regain significant function, though outcomes depend on bone quality and overall health.
Q3: Is revision surgery riskier than primary surgery?
It can be more complex but with experienced surgeons and modern implants, risks are well managed.
Hi, I am a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon in North Wales, United Kingdom.
I help people regain their mobility and live pain-free lives through advanced hip and knee surgery. As a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, I specialize in hip replacement, knee replacement, and revision surgery (re-do surgery for failed hip and knee replacements), offering both NHS (National Health Service) and private practice expertise.
I am also registered with leading private medical insurers, including AXA Health, BUPA, Vitality Health, WPA, Aviva, Cigna, Allianz Partners, and Healix Health Services Ltd, enabling seamless access to private orthopaedic care for insured patients.
For appointments or any other enquiries, please email secretary@dramirazam.com.
Dr Amir Azam
Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
MBBS, MS (Orth), MRCS, FRCS (Orth)
