When Is It Time to Consider a Hip or Knee Revision Surgery?

Joint replacement surgeries have helped millions of people regain their mobility and live without constant pain. However, even the most advanced implants can wear down, loosen, or experience complications over time. 

When an original implant is no longer working as it should, a secondary procedure may be necessary to restore your joint.

At Robert J Otto, MD, we provide specialized care for patients facing joint issues. If you’re experiencing pain or instability in a joint that was previously replaced, it might be time to discuss a revision hip replacement or revision knee replacement.

Why do joint replacements fail?

While modern joint replacements are highly durable, they can eventually wear out or develop issues. The most common reasons for a revision include implant loosening, infection, joint instability, or natural wear-and-tear of the artificial joint components over many years.

The demand for these secondary procedures is rising significantly. According to the National Institutes of Health, the demand for revision total knee replacements among the Medicare population is projected to increase by 149% by the year 2040. 

This is largely because patients are receiving primary replacements at younger ages and outliving their original implants.

Key signs you might need a revision surgery

Recognizing the warning signs of a failing implant early can prevent further damage to your surrounding bone and tissue. You should pay close attention to how your joint feels during daily activities.

The most common signs that it’s time to consider a revision include:

Persistent or worsening pain

New or returning pain in your hip or knee, especially during weight-bearing activities, is often the first sign of implant loosening or wear.

Joint instability

If your knee or hip feels like it’s giving out, sliding, or no longer supporting your weight, the implant components may have shifted.

Swelling and stiffness

Ongoing inflammation or a sudden loss of range of motion can indicate a mechanical issue or a deep joint infection.

The danger of waiting too long

Some patients believe they should endure joint pain as long as possible to delay a secondary surgery. However, waiting too long can actually make a future procedure more difficult.

As noted by Harvard Health Publishing, delaying necessary joint surgery until your cartilage completely breaks down or your joint becomes severely deformed increases surgical complexity and can permanently limit your long-term functional recovery. Addressing implant issues early helps preserve your healthy bone structure.

We're here to help you navigate your joint health journey with confidence. If you suspect your hip or knee implant is failing, don't wait for the pain to worsen. Call us or use our online booking tool to schedule an appointment at one of our locations in Nashville and Murfreesboro, Tennessee.