What is revision hip replacement?

Revision hip replacement might be necessary if you have problems with an artificial hip joint.

Hip replacement surgery is usually a successful operation that enables patients with disabling hip conditions to regain their mobility and lead active pain-free lives. At times, though, things can go wrong with the replacement hip, causing renewed pain and loss of function.

Dr. Otto performs revision hip replacement surgery to resolve any problems with your artificial hip.

When would I need revision hip replacement?

The most common reasons for needing revision hip replacement surgery are:

Loosened implants

To secure the original implant, your surgeon might have used bone cement or press-fitted the implant so new bone grew around it. Sometimes the cement degrades over time, or new bone might not grow properly around the press-fit component. These issues can lead to the loosening of your new hip.

Osteolysis

Osteolysis (bone deterioration) occurs when your immune system reacts to tiny particles in the plastic joint liner that forms part of your new hip. Your immune system attacks the plastic particles but damages healthy bone as well, causing osteolysis and loosening the implant. This happens far less often with modern materials than with older implants.

Infection

Bacterial infection in a replacement joint is hard to treat with oral antibiotics. Dr. Otto can thoroughly clear the infection during revision hip replacement surgery.

Recurring dislocations

A hip dislocation happens when the ball-shaped bone at the top of your femur (thigh bone) comes out of its socket (acetabulum). If you repeatedly dislocate your hip, you might benefit from revision surgery to realign the hip joint or insert a component that prevents dislocations.

Fractures

Periprosthetic fractures (broken bones around the new hip) can result from falls and other traumas. They usually require revision hip replacement surgery.

Metal ion reaction

The metals in hip implants sometimes wear away or break down, releasing tiny particles containing metal ions. You could develop problems with your new hip if your body’s sensitive to these metal ions. It can cause local damage to the bone and tendons in the hip if left untreated.

What happens when I have revision hip replacement?

Revision hip replacement surgery is more complex than the original procedure. Dr. Otto needs to use specialized implants and instruments and complete lengthy presurgical planning.

Your revision surgery might involve removing one or both of the original parts and installing new ones. You might need grafts or metal supports to replace any bone loss in the hip joint. If you have an infection, Dr. Otto debrides the joint, carefully removing all the infected material.

A temporary antibiotic spacer is placed while receiving antibiotics. Once the infection is treated, a second surgery is performed to implant the new hip replacement.

If you’re suffering pain and loss of function in a replacement hip, find out how revision hip replacement surgery could help by calling Robert J Otto MD today or booking an appointment online.