Revision knee replacement
When a knee replacement becomes loose, unstable, infected or worn, revision surgery replaces some or all of it. I trained in revision hip and knee surgery during fellowships in Montreal and at King's College Hospital, London.
Why a knee replacement may need revising
- Loosening of the implant from the bone
- Instability, where the knee feels wobbly or gives way
- Infection
- Wear of the plastic insert
- Severe stiffness
- A fracture around the implant
- Arthritis progressing after a partial knee replacement
Finding the cause
I will review your history and examine you, and arrange X-rays, blood tests and often a CT scan. If infection is possible, I may take a sample of fluid from the joint. Revision for pain without a clear cause rarely helps, and I will tell you honestly if I do not think surgery will improve things.
The operation and recovery
Revision surgery is more complex than a first knee replacement. It often uses implants designed for revision, which give extra stability and fixation. Recovery is slower, and the risks, particularly infection, stiffness and further surgery, are higher. Results are generally good when there is a clear cause to correct.
Where I carry out revision surgery
Revision surgery is a bigger operation, and patients may need high-dependency care afterwards. For this reason, I prefer to carry out most revision operations at the Essex and Suffolk Elective Orthopaedic Centre (ESEOC) at Colchester Hospital, which offers a private patient service for both insured and self-paying patients. Some less complicated revision operations are done at Nuffield Health Ipswich. We will discuss which hospital is best for you at your first consultation at Nuffield Health Ipswich.
Costs and insurance
I am recognised by Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, Vitality, Aetna and Healix. Please check that your policy covers your treatment and the hospital where it will take place, and ask your insurer for a pre-authorisation number before your first appointment. If you are paying for yourself, you will be given a quote for your surgery once we have agreed your treatment plan and where it will take place. See fees and insurance.
Written and reviewed by Mr Krishna Boddu FRCS (Tr & Orth), consultant orthopaedic surgeon, GMC 5206961. Last reviewed: 1 November 2026.
Sources
Book a consultation
I see patients at Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital. You can book online, or contact my secretary, Daniela Capaldo, who can also help with insurance and self-pay questions.