BOSS ORTHOPAEDICSPatrick Pallitto, M.D.

Procedure

Revision Knee Replacement in Hilton Head, Bluffton & Beaufort, SC

Overview

When a Prior Knee Replacement
Needs Revision.

If a prior knee replacement is causing pain, instability, or has worn over time, Dr. Pallitto provides evaluation and revision surgery to restore function and relieve pain. Revision knee replacement is a more complex procedure than a first-time (primary) knee replacement, and Dr. Pallitto tailors the surgical plan to the specific reason your original implant needs revision.

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  • IncludesFull and partial component revision
Postoperative X-ray of a total knee replacement, anteroposterior view

Postoperative X-ray, total knee replacement (anteroposterior view).

Understanding Revision

Common Reasons a Knee Replacement Needs Revision

  • Implant wear or loosening — components loosen from the bone over time
  • Instability — the knee feels like it may buckle or give way
  • Infection — bacteria affecting the implant or surrounding tissue
  • Persistent stiffness — limited motion that doesn't improve with therapy
  • Periprosthetic fracture — a fracture of the bone around the implant

Symptoms That May Indicate Revision Is Needed

  • New or increasing pain in a previously replaced knee
  • A feeling of instability or the knee "giving way"
  • Decreased function or a change in how the knee moves
  • Swelling, warmth, or drainage that may signal infection

How Revision Is Evaluated

Dr. Pallitto evaluates a failing knee replacement with X-rays and, when infection is a concern, lab work to determine the cause before recommending a surgical plan.

Good to Know

Risks & Considerations

Revision knee replacement carries the same general risks as primary knee replacement — including infection, blood clots, stiffness, and nerve or blood vessel injury — generally at a higher rate than a first-time replacement due to the added surgical complexity. Dr. Pallitto discusses your individual risk factors during consultation.

Related Reading

Get a Second Opinion Before Revision Surgery → Common Myths About Hip & Knee Replacement, Debunked → Signs It's Time for Hip or Knee Replacement →

Where We Practice

Hilton Head, Bluffton & Beaufort

Hilton Head Island

Phone
(843) 681-2363
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Bluffton

Phone
(843) 837-4300
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Beaufort

Phone
(843) 525-0045
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Think You May Need a Knee Revision?

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