Revision of total knee arthroplasty.

In 72 knees, revision total knee arthroplasties were comparable in results with primary operations. There was a higher incidence of extensor mechanism problems and less complete relief of pain. Although the incidence of postoperative radiolucencies was high, these were nonprogressive and, in most cases, not harbingers of progressive loosening. Revision surgery requires surgical skill and judgment, as well as facilities to provide a wide range of prosthetic sizes and, if necessary, custom designs.