What are the symptoms of knee replacement or implant problems?

Some of the symptoms associated with failure of these devices include:

Loosening of the attachment between the bone and artificial device, which occurs in both cemented and uncemented artificial joints
Painful stiffness or infection
Fractures near the artificial joint
Instability
Wear and tear on plastic parts
Breakage, especially metal breaks from constant weight-bearing stress

What is the history of knee replacement devices?

In 1973, Zimmer Holdings, Inc. introduced the first metal and plastic knee replacement device. Since 1995, more than 1.45 million knee systems have been implanted in patients in the United States. In 2009 alone, domestic sales aone totaled more than a billion dollars. To date, Zimmer remains the most successful manufacturer, primarily because of its popular “NexGen” models.
There are several... read more?

What are the potential complications of revision surgery?

The potential complications of revision surgery are themselves painful and debilitating, and can result in permanent damage or even death: Complications from anesthesiaThrombophlebitis (blood clots in the legs)InfectionMyositis ossificans (calcium deposits in soft tissue around the knee joint, causing inflammation of muscles where they meet the bone)Loosening where a metal component or cement... read more?