Knee replacement surgery has transformed the lives of thousands of people across the UK, with most patients experiencing excellent long-term results and implants typically lasting 15–20 years or more. Research indicates that approximately 5% of total knee replacements (TKA) may necessitate revision surgery within 10 years. The most common reasons include aseptic loosening (29.8%), infection (14.8%), and ongoing pain (9.5%). While these risks remain relatively low, they can have a significant impact on the individuals affected.
Each year, the NHS carries out a large number of knee replacements, and the majority of implants are both safe and effective. However, data from the National Joint Registry has occasionally highlighted certain implant models with higher-than-expected revision rates, such as the NexGen knee implant, which was withdrawn in 2022. This underscores the wrongful selection of the implant and establishes the importance of continual monitoring and patient safety in joint replacement care.
Knee Problems: The investigation
Knee problems affect many people across the UK, whether due to wear and tear, injury, arthritis or after knee replacement surgery. If you’re considering a knee replacement or have had one, it’s perfectly reasonable to have questions about implants, pain relief, risks, and what to watch out for.
Recently, there has been concern over a particular knee replacement component, known as the NexGen knee implant (manufactured by Zimmer Biomet), which has been found to have a higher-than-expected failure rate under certain conditions. Thousands of patients were fitted with certain versions of this implant before warnings and a recall were issued.
What the Investigation Revealed
The concerns about the NexGen implant came to light after surgeons and the National Joint Registry (NJR) began noticing higher-than-expected problems in some patients. The issue was linked to a specific part of the implant (called the Stemmed Option tibial component) when it was used alongside certain other components.
Some patients developed symptoms such as ongoing pain, swelling, or a feeling that the knee was unstable. In more serious cases, the implant shifted out of place, which could damage surrounding bone and require a second operation to put things right.
Because of the discomfort, several patients were prescribed strong pain relief, including morphine and fentanyl. While these medicines can be useful in the short term, they carry risks of dependency and side effects if used for too long. This highlighted not only the importance of safe implant choice but also of careful pain management after surgery.
The implant in question was officially withdrawn in 2022, and its story is a reminder of why ongoing monitoring, transparent data, and patient safety must always come first in joint replacement care.
What Has Been Done to Protect Patients
Once concerns about the NexGen implant became clear, the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) issued a recall of the affected component in December 2022. This meant it was no longer to be used in new operations.
The recall was based on evidence collected through the National Joint Registry (NJR), which monitors knee and hip replacement surgeries across the UK. This ongoing monitoring is there to protect patients and help spot problems early so that action can be taken.
These steps have been important in helping reduce risks for future patients. However, for those already fitted with a faulty implant, the consequences could include ongoing pain, difficulty moving the knee, or even the need for another operation. In many cases, patients relied heavily on strong painkillers to manage these symptoms.
Assurance: Why Northampton Hip and Knee Clinic Is Different
Patient Safety First
At Northampton Hip and Knee Clinic, your safety is always the top priority. Under the expert care of Pierre Nasr, only thoroughly tested, reliable implants with proven track records are ever used. Each implant choice is carefully reviewed against the latest performance data to ensure the very best outcomes for patients.
- The Safest Implants, Carefully Selected
- Rigorous vetting of every implant used
- Proven designs with long-term success rates
- Regular monitoring of national safety updates
- Immediate action if any concerns ever arise
- Precision and Advanced Technology
We use the latest surgical techniques to ensure accuracy and comfort, including:
- Computer-assisted navigation for precise placement
- Advanced imaging to tailor treatment to your anatomy
- Modern prostheses are designed to last 15–20 years or more
- Complete Care, Every Step of the Way
From your first consultation through to recovery, we provide:
- Thorough pre-surgery assessment and personalised planning
- Clear advice to help you make informed choices
- Pain management strategies that reduce reliance on opioids
- Comprehensive aftercare and physiotherapy support
At Northampton Hip and Knee Clinic, you can move forward with confidence, knowing that every detail of your care is designed with your safety and long-term well-being in mind.
Conclusion: Choose Safety and Expertise
The recent concerns surrounding certain faulty knee replacement implants have highlighted just how important patient safety and careful implant selection are in joint replacement care. While the vast majority of knee replacements carried out in the UK are safe and successful, the NexGen case shows why ongoing monitoring and transparent data are essential.
At Northampton Hip and Knee Clinic, patients can feel confident knowing that every aspect of their treatment is designed with safety in mind. Under the expert care of Pierre Nasr, we only use thoroughly tested, reliable implants with proven track records. This ensures that the risks linked to withdrawn implants are never an issue for our patients.
If you are considering knee replacement surgery, choosing a clinic that places safety, implant quality, and patient outcomes at the heart of its approach can make all the difference. At Northampton Hip and Knee Clinic, we are committed to helping you achieve the best possible results, with the peace of mind that comes from knowing you are in safe hands.
Book your consultation today
Take the first step towards pain-free movement with a team that prioritises your safety and wellbeing.
