The knee implants utilized in 85 percent to 90 percent of complete knee replacement patients will survive 15 to 20 years. This means that some patients who receive a knee replacement at a younger age may require a second procedure to clean the bone surfaces and re-fixate the implants. However, many studies show that patient survival rates after ten years are similar for those who receive a primary knee replacement versus a revision knee replacement. In general, patients who have a total knee replacement performed by a skilled surgeon will experience few complications during their lifetime. As with any surgery, there is a chance of infection or injury to the blood vessels or nerves that pass through the knee joint. In addition, people who are very active after having a total knee replacement may develop problems with their implant or surgical site infections. These cases require further treatment by a trained physician. A total knee replacement lasts about three hours under local anesthesia. Patients can go home after this short hospital stay if they are not having any pain relief medications administered via injection into the muscle or vein. Otherwise, they will need to remain in the hospital for several more days to heal from the surgery. Generally, a total knee replacement lasts between 10 and 14 years before it needs to be replaced. After this time frame, you should contact your doctor if you are experiencing pain, discomfort, or difficulty using your knees.