Advanced Care for Complex Hip Conditions
Hip Revision Surgery
A total hip replacement is designed to relieve severe joint pain and help you move freely again. For the vast majority of patients, this initial procedure offers decades of improved mobility and quality of life. However, implants can sometimes wear out, loosen, or develop complications over time. When a primary hip replacement fails, it can cause significant discomfort, instability, and a decline in your ability to perform daily activities. Facing the reality of another operation can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to live with a painful or failing hip joint.
At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, we are highly experienced in treating patients who need a second chance at a successful joint replacement. Our board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons specialize in complex hip revision surgery. We utilize advanced diagnostic imaging to uncover the exact cause of your hip pain and design a personalized surgical plan to address it. Our dedicated team is committed to providing compassionate, expert care to help you overcome these challenges and get back on your feet.
If you are struggling with a painful hip implant, we are here to help. Request an appointment with our joint replacement specialists to explore your options for lasting relief.
What is Hip Revision Surgery? Giving You the Relief You Deserve
Hip revision surgery is a complex procedure performed to remove and replace a previously implanted artificial hip joint that is no longer functioning correctly. Unlike a primary hip replacement, where the surgeon works with your natural bone, a revision surgery requires the careful extraction of old metal and plastic components.
During the procedure, your orthopedic surgeon will make an incision to access the hip joint, carefully remove the failing implants, and clean out any damaged bone or scar tissue. We then insert new, specialized revision components. These new implants are often larger or have longer stems to securely anchor into the remaining healthy bone. The entire process is intricately planned using advanced imaging to ensure the new joint provides maximum stability, relieves your pain, and restores your hip's proper mechanics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would someone need hip revision surgery?
While modern hip implants are highly durable, they are not invincible. Over years of active use, the components can experience natural wear and tear. The most common reason for hip revision surgery is implant loosening, where the bond between the artificial joint and your natural bone weakens, causing friction and pain.
Other reasons for needing a revision include recurrent hip dislocations, where the ball repeatedly pops out of the socket. Infection around the implant site, even years after the initial surgery, can also necessitate the removal of the old joint to clear the bacteria. Additionally, a periprosthetic fracture—a broken bone around the implant caused by a fall or trauma—often requires a revision procedure to stabilize the joint and repair the bone.
What are the signs that my hip replacement is failing?
The most obvious indicator that your hip replacement may be failing is a return of pain in your hip, groin, or thigh. This pain might occur during weight-bearing activities like walking or even while you are resting. You should not ignore new or worsening discomfort in a previously replaced joint.
Other warning signs include a noticeable decrease in your hip's range of motion, a feeling of instability, or a sensation that the hip is giving way when you stand. You might also notice a limp or a change in the length of your leg. If you experience swelling, redness, or warmth around the surgical site, this could be a sign of an infection and requires immediate medical evaluation.
How is a revision procedure different from my first hip replacement?
A hip revision is significantly more complex and time-consuming than a primary hip replacement. Because the original surgery altered your natural anatomy, your surgeon must navigate around scar tissue and carefully extract components that may have grown into the bone.
Furthermore, a failing implant often causes bone loss over time. Your surgeon must address this missing bone to create a strong foundation for the new implant, which may involve using bone grafts or specialized metal augments. Due to these complexities, revision surgeries typically require highly specialized surgical tools, advanced pre-operative planning, and a surgeon with specific expertise in reconstructive joint procedures.
What is the recovery like after a hip revision?
Because the surgery is more extensive, recovery from a hip revision is often longer and more demanding than your first hip replacement. You will likely spend a few days in the hospital for monitoring and initial physical therapy.
Depending on the extent of bone grafting or the type of implant used, your surgeon may restrict how much weight you can put on your leg for several weeks. You will use a walker or crutches during this initial healing phase. Physical therapy is a critical component of your recovery, focusing on safely restoring your mobility, rebuilding muscle strength, and improving your gait. While a full recovery can take up to a year, many patients experience a significant reduction in their joint pain much sooner.
Am I a good candidate for this complex procedure?
A good candidate for hip revision surgery is someone experiencing significant pain, instability, or functional decline due to a clearly diagnosed failure of a previous hip implant. Our surgeons conduct a comprehensive evaluation to ensure that a revision is the most appropriate and effective solution for your specific problem.
Because the surgery is demanding, your overall health is carefully considered. Your doctor will review your medical history, bone quality, and any underlying conditions that could impact your healing. We also emphasize the importance of having realistic expectations; while the goal is to relieve pain and restore function, a revised hip may not feel exactly the same as a primary replacement.
How do I schedule a consultation for hip revision surgery?
If you suspect your hip replacement is failing, getting an expert evaluation is the first step toward finding relief. At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, we make it easy to schedule a consultation with one of our joint revision experts so you can understand your options.
We offer convenient online scheduling through our website, or you can call our office directly to speak with our dedicated staff. We look forward to seeing you, answering your questions, and helping you get back to a comfortable, active lifestyle.