(v) Revision total knee arthroplasty: complications

As the number of total knee arthroplasty procedures performed worldwide continues to increase, so is there an associated increase in the requirement for revision surgery. Revision total knee arthroplasty is a major and complex undertaking, requiring first a full understanding and appreciation of the exact underlying causes for the failure of the primary procedure. Revision arthroplasty is fraught with potential technical pitfalls, with the risk of intra-operative difficulties and challenges plus the significant potential for post-operative complications. This articles aims to detail the potential complications that can be associated with revision knee arthroplasty surgery, with the emphasis that if the surgeon is fully aware of and looks out for such potential eventualities then appropriate preparation should aid in both their avoidance and their appropriate management.