Revision Hip Arthroplasty

Snapping hip syndrome can be frustrating, especially for athletes and active individuals. That unmistakable snapping sensation in the hip joint often raises concerns, but with the right approach, it can be managed effectively.

At Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine, our experienced team helps patients find relief from hip syndrome and other orthopedic conditions. Contact our offices in Granville or Coshocton today to schedule an appointment!

What is Hip Revision Surgery?

Hip revision surgery, also known as revision total hip replacement, is a surgical procedure performed to replace or repair a failed or worn-out hip implant from initial hip replacement surgery. Unlike primary total hip replacement, which is the initial surgery to replace a damaged hip joint, revision surgery is more complex and requires specialized expertise.

The goal of revision hip replacement is to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve the stability of the hip joint. This may involve replacing one or more components of the original implant, addressing bone loss, or correcting alignment issues.

When is Revision Total Hip Replacement Recommended?

Revision total hip arthroplasty may be necessary for several reasons:

Implant Wear and Loosening: Over time, the components of a hip replacement can wear out or loosen, leading to pain and reduced function. This is especially common in younger, more active patients who may “outlive” their initial hip replacement.
Infection: An infection around the prosthetic joint can cause pain, swelling, and implant loosening. In such cases, revision surgery is often required to remove the infected tissue and replace the implant.
Recurrent Dislocation: If the hip joint frequently dislocates, revision surgery may be needed to improve joint stability and alignment.
Fracture: A broken bone around the implant, known as a periprosthetic fracture, can compromise the stability of the hip replacement and necessitate revision surgery.
Reaction to Metal Ions or Allergy: Some patients may develop a reaction to metal particles from the implant, leading to bone and soft tissue damage. In rare cases, a metal allergy can cause pain and implant failure.

If you’re experiencing persistent pain, instability, or other issues with your hip replacement, it’s important to consult with a specialist. Our team at Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine offers comprehensive evaluations and treatments for hip conditions.

How to Prepare for Surgery

Preparing for revision hip surgery involves several steps to ensure a smooth procedure and recovery:

Medical Evaluation: You will undergo a complete physical examination to assess your overall health and identify any conditions that may affect surgery.
Imaging Tests: X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may be ordered to evaluate the condition of your hip joint and implant.
Laboratory Tests: Blood tests and joint fluid analysis can help detect infections or other issues.
Home Preparation: You will need to arrange for assistance at home during your recovery and make necessary modifications to your living space to accommodate limited mobility.

Our team will provide detailed instructions tailored to your specific needs to help you prepare for surgery.

What Happens During the Procedure?

Revision hip surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and involves the following steps:

Removal of the Old Implant: The surgeon carefully removes the existing prosthetic components.
Bone Grafting: If there is significant bone loss, a bone graft may be used to rebuild the bone structure.
Implantation of New Components: New prosthetic components are inserted to restore the function of the hip joint.
Closure: The surgical site is closed with sutures or staples, and a dressing is applied.

The complexity of the revision procedure depends on factors such as the condition of the bone and soft tissues, the reason for the revision, and the type of implant used.

Possible Complications

As with any surgical procedure, revision hip surgery carries potential risks:

Infection: The risk of infection is higher in revision surgeries compared to primary surgeries.
Dislocation: The likelihood of hip dislocation increases after revision surgery due to changes in the soft tissues and implant positioning.
Blood Clots: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism are potential complications.
Nerve or Blood Vessel Injury: There is a risk of damage to surrounding nerves or blood vessels during surgery.
Leg Length Discrepancy: Differences in leg length may occur after surgery.

Our surgical team takes every precaution to minimize these risks and will discuss them with you in detail before the procedure.

Recovery

Recovery from revision hip surgery is typically longer and more involved than recovery from primary hip replacement:

Hospital Stay: Expect to stay in the hospital for several days post-surgery.
Physical Therapy: A structured rehabilitation program is crucial for regaining strength and mobility.
Assistive Devices: You may need to use a walker, crutches, or a cane during the initial recovery period.
Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups are necessary to monitor healing and implant function.

Full recovery can take up to 12 months, depending on individual factors and adherence to the rehabilitation plan.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine proudly serves patients in Granville and Coshocton, Ohio. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized care and advanced surgical solutions to help you regain mobility and improve your quality of life.

If you’re experiencing issues with your hip replacement or have concerns about your joint health, don’t wait. Contact one of our offices to schedule a consultation. Our experienced orthopedic surgeons are here to help you explore your options and guide you through every step of your treatment and recovery.

Medically reviewed by Eric Erb, MD