Hip Revision Surgery
What Is Hip Revision Surgery?
Hip replacements are among the most common procedures performed by orthopedic
surgeons, and the vast majority of patients have excellent results. Unfortunately,
hip replacements wear out over time. Revision hip replacement surgery
is a procedure to replace a worn out hip replacement implant. Hip replacements
wear out very slowly, but the problem does progress over the years. When
the prosthesis wears out, patients will require a revision hip replacement surgery.
Why Do Hip Replacements Wear Out?
Hip replacements can wear out for various reasons. The most common cause
of a hip replacement wearing out occurs when the hip implants become loose
within the bone. A loose hip implant tends to be painful and usually requires
revision hip replacement.
Other causes for a hip replacement wearing out include:
- Infection
- Breaking of the prosthesis
- Breaking of the bone around the prosthesis
- Wear and tear over time or other complications
Depending on the cause of the implant failing, treatment other than revision
hip replacement may be needed. For example, in the case of infection,
the hip replacement may need to be removed to treat the infection, followed
by the revision hip replacement later.
What Do You Need To Know About The Problem With Revision Hip Replacements?
Revision hip replacements are more complicated surgeries and the outcomes
may not be as good as the first hip replacement. Technical problems include
the quality of the bone and the ability to adequately secure the revision
hip replacements into position. Furthermore, removing the old hip replacement
can necessitate more extensive surgery. Together, these problems often
require the revision hip replacement to be much more complex. Careful
planning by your orthopedic surgeon is needed to ensure he or she will
be able to construct a hip that will allow you to adequately recover.
How Do I Know When I Need Revision Hip Replacement?
You and your surgeon will decide when the time is right for this surgery.
In some cases, patients do not have many symptoms, but X-ray studies show
reasons to consider the revision hip replacement. This is a complex surgery
that requires careful consideration and planning. If you have a hip replacement
and think you may need revision surgery, discuss your options with your
orthopedic surgeon.