Loosening of a total knee prosthesis
What is a loosening of a total knee replacement?
Loosening of a total knee replacement occurs when the part of the prosthesis that is attached to the bone no longer holds securely in place.
This can occur because of a gradual separation between the implant and the bone, often due to loss of adhesion or bone fixation over time.
Loosening is a serious complication that compromises the stability and function of the prosthesis, often requiring surgery to correct the problem.
Loosening of a total knee prosthesis
Causes and symptoms of loosening
Causes
Wear or Aging: Over time, the bond between the implant and the bone may deteriorate, causing loosening.
Infection: Infection around the prosthesis can damage the bone tissue and compromise the fixation of the prosthesis.
Poor Initial Fixation: Poor fixation during initial implantation can lead to early loosening.
Trauma: Trauma or excessive stress on the prosthesis can also contribute to loosening.
Symptoms
Pain: Persistent and progressive pain around the knee, even at rest.
Instability: Feeling of looseness or weakness in the knee.
Swelling: Persistent swelling around the knee.
Reduced mobility: Difficulty fully bending or extending the knee.
Crepitus: A cracking or rubbing sensation when the knee is moved.
Possible treatments
Treatments for loosening of a total knee replacement depend on a variety of factors, including the extent of the loosening, the patient's general condition, and the presence of possible complications such as infection.
Treatment options include
Prosthesis revision: Surgery is often necessary to remove the unbalanced prosthesis and replace it with a new prosthesis or repair the existing fixation.
Cleaning and irrigation : If infection is present, a surgical cleaning procedure to eliminate the infection may be necessary prior to any revision of the prosthesis.
Antibiotic therapy : If infection occurs, appropriate antibiotic treatment is essential to control the infection and prevent its recurrence.
Postoperative rehabilitation : Once the new prosthesis is in place, a period of intensive rehabilitation is necessary to restore muscle strength, flexibility and function of the knee.
Long-term follow-up : Regular follow-up is recommended to monitor the stability and function of the new prosthesis, as well as to detect any new potentially early complications.
In summary, loosening of a total knee replacement is a serious complication that requires prompt surgical intervention to prevent further deterioration of the knee condition and to restore the patient's normal joint function.
The choice of treatment will depend on the individual assessment of each case by an orthopedic specialist.