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Knee replacement technology has advanced significantly, offering patients with degenerative joint disease relief from pain and improved mobility for much longer today. How long is longer? The longevity of a knee replacement depends on various factors, including the expertise and technique of your surgeon. This blog will discuss the average lifespan of a knee replacement, factors that impact that timeline, and steps you can take to ensure your knee replacement lasts as long as possible.
What Is the Average Lifespan for a Knee Replacement?
Unfortunately, it is challenging to answer this question with any degree of precision, since every patient — and every knee — is different. The average lifespan appears to be 15–20 years, although some patients can go much longer. One recent study found that patients under 55 who underwent total knee arthroplasty did not need a revision procedure during their lifetimes. Advanced materials and techniques in knee replacement surgery have contributed to longer lifespans for these devices.
Patients as young as their forties have begun considering knee replacement to maintain their higher level of activity without pain or limitations. The recent findings are positive news for younger, active patients who have been hesitant to move forward with knee replacement surgery too soon because of concerns that they may need a revision at some point. Researchers are finding that, for many of these patients, their knee replacements are likely to last a lifetime, making earlier replacement a feasible option in many cases.
What Affects How Long a Knee Replacement Lasts?
While the vast majority of patients will enjoy the benefits of their knee replacement for 15–20 years or longer, some may need revision surgery much sooner. What is the difference? Numerous factors determine how long a knee replacement lasts, including:
Patient Age
The patient’s age at the time of surgery can impact the likelihood of a future replacement. One study found that males and younger patients are at higher risk for multiple revisions. These findings may be concerning for some patients, as subsequent surgeries tend to require longer recoveries and a higher risk of additional revisions. However, younger patients with limited activity levels due to pain and other symptoms may determine that the benefits of early arthroscopy outweigh the risk of future knee joint replacement.
Activity Level
The primary purpose of knee replacement surgery is to restore a patient’s activity level, but that same activity may affect how quickly the joint wears down. Running, jumping, and other high-impact activities are more likely to take their toll on your new joint faster than low-impact workouts like swimming or bicycling. Your provider can advise you as to the best exercise for a healthy lifestyle that doesn’t put additional strain on your joints.
Patient Weight
Weight is another key factor in the longevity of your knee replacement. Extra weight stresses the joint, accelerating wear and tear. Dr. Snibbe considers BMI (body mass index) a criterion for knee replacement candidates and advises some patients to lose a set amount of weight before surgery to ensure an optimal outcome. However, patients who gain weight after arthroscopy also increase their risk for early joint failure and the need for revision surgery sooner, rather than later.
Implant Type
The implant design and materials used also affect the durability of your knee joint. Dr. Snibbe and his team use state-of-the-art implant designs, customized to each patient’s specifications, to ensure the highest success rate. In most cases, the joint itself is not the reason a revision may be needed in the future. Instead, factors like bone health, joint loosening, or injury are more likely to require additional surgery.
Surgical Technique
The surgeon’s skill and technique also significantly affect how long a knee joint lasts. A well-aligned implant ensures minimal wear, optimal function, and a longer lifespan for your knee replacement. Dr. Jason Snibbe is a leader in joint replacement, pioneering his robotic surgical techniques to achieve:
- Improved implant positioning
- Ideal soft tissue balancing
- Faster recovery
- Superior results
Dr. Snibbe is one of the most trusted orthopedic experts worldwide, treating professional athletes, performers, and patients of all ages wishing to remain active.
Tips to Extend a Knee Replacement
Patients can also take steps to maximize the life expectancy of their knee replacement, such as:
- Following all postoperative instructions carefully
- Adhering to the physical therapy plan after surgery
- Keeping all follow-up appointments with our office
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Opting for low-impact workouts like swimming and walking
- Supporting your physical health with diet and exercise
While these steps will go a long way toward keeping your joint in top condition, knee replacements do require revision on occasion. By paying attention to signs that your joint may be wearing out, you can seek earlier revision surgery that may prevent the need for a total replacement.
How Do I Know My Knee Replacement Is Wearing Out?
If you experience any of these signs after your arthroscopy, they may indicate your joint is wearing out and requires further treatment:
- Pain or Swelling: Persistent discomfort and swelling that occurs long after your initial recovery period could signal a problem.
- Infection: Symptoms such as pain, instability, or swelling may indicate an infection around the joint, which requires prompt treatment to avoid further complications.
- Joint Loosening: When the bone fails to grow around the implant, joint loosening can occur, leading to pain, swelling, and joint dislocation.
- Injury to the Joint: Dislocations and fractures can impact the knee replacement, leading to joint loosening and painful symptoms.
Schedule a Consultation for Your Knee Replacement in Los Angeles, CA
Knee replacement surgery can be a life-changing decision for adults who have experienced decreased activity and mobility due to joint pain and stiffness. Dr. Stibbe is a leading orthopedic surgeon renowned for his minimally invasive robotic surgeries and superior outcomes.To learn more about your options in knee replacement in Los Angeles, call our office at (310) 746-5918 or complete our online contact form.
