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Hip Revision Surgery

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“I have had 2 partial knee replacements & a hip replacement. In both instances, I received excellent care.” — Marilyn C.

Hip revision surgery is a complex and sometimes necessary option for patients whose initial hip replacement surgery fails due to complications. Whether it’s hip pain, instability, or hip prosthesis failure – a revision hip replacement is designed to restore comfort, function, and mobility.

If you’re considering a second surgery, this article will walk you through everything – from what hip revision surgery involves and who needs it to how you can help prevent it in the future. Reach out to JIS Orthopedics in New Albany or St. Clairsville, OH, to explore whether revision total hip replacement could be right for you.

What is Hip Revision Surgery?

Revision hip surgery, also known as revision total hip arthroplasty, is a procedure to replace or adjust components of a prior total hip replacement. It involves removing parts of the previously implanted hip joint, including loosened or damaged components. During revision surgery, revision implant pieces such as an acetabular component, plastic liner, or femoral head component may be used to restore function.

What Are the Signs of Needing a Second Hip Replacement?

Signs that you may require revision surgery include:

  • Persistent or worsening hip pain long after the initial surgery
  • Instability or repeated dislocations, especially in certain hip positions
  • Limping, reduced mobility, or difficulty walking due to a failing hip prosthesis
  • Signs of infection (e.g., pain, fever, warmth, swelling around the implant)
  • X‑ray evidence of bone loss, loosening of the canal around the implant, or a fracture
 

If you notice any of these symptoms after a primary total hip replacement surgery, speak with your surgeon about the possibility of a revision hip replacement surgery.

Preparing for Surgery

Proper prep is critical. Before revision total hip replacement, your care team, including an orthopedic surgeon and physical therapist, may:

  1. Conduct imaging to assess the condition of your femoral or acetabular component and remaining bone
  2. Perform lab tests to rule out infection
  3. Plan a tailored prehab regimen to optimize strength and mobility
  4. Discuss surgical risks such as blood clots, infection, and anesthesia issues
  5. Advice on stopping certain medications and maintaining a healthy weight
 

It’s important that your healthy bone and surrounding soft tissues are in good shape prior to surgery to aid in the recovery process.

Surgical Procedure

The revision surgery itself is more complex than primary hip replacement. Key steps include:

  1. Removing the damaged or infected portions of the previously implanted hip joint – possibly including the femoral stem, femoral head component, and acetabular cup
  2. Evaluating the remaining bone for damage or loss
  3. Possibly performing a bone graft procedure if significant bone loss occurred in the femur or pelvis
  4. Implanting the revision implant, which may comprise a longer femoral stem, a new acetabular shell, as well as a new femoral head or plastic liner
  5. Ensuring proper leg length, alignment, and soft tissue tension
  6. Closing the wound and applying a drain, if needed

Hip Revision Surgery Recovery

Recovery after revision hip replacement can be longer and more difficult than after initial hip replacement. Key aspects include:

  • A potential hospital stay to monitor your progress closely. This includes evaluating your pain control, monitoring your wound, and ensuring the prevention of blood clots
  • You may be required to take intravenous antibiotics, especially if you had an artificial hip joint infection
  • A regimented course of physical therapy, often starting with walking and gradually increasing to strengthening exercises
  • Weight‑bearing status depends on the type of revision and whether a bone graft was used
  • Home adjustments to assist with daily living and reduce the risk of falls
  • Follow‑up visits to monitor implant integrity via imaging and assess functional progress
 

Achieving proper healing takes patience. Many patients regain most of their function in the new hip joint within 6–12 weeks, but full recovery may take 6 months or longer.

Risks of Hip Revision Surgery

While revision hip procedures restore mobility, they come with risks, including:

  • Infection, especially around the artificial hip joint
  • Blood clots
  • Fractures of the femur or around the implant
  • Dislocation of the new hip
  • Nerve or vascular injury
  • Continued pain or implant loosening
  • Non‑union of bone grafts
 

Because revision surgery is more invasive, careful post‑operative monitoring and rehabilitation are vital to reduce these risks.

How Can I Prevent the Need for Hip Revision Surgery?

While some risk factors are beyond control, you can reduce the chance of revision by:

  • Choosing an experienced orthopedic surgeon who uses proven surgical techniques
  • Managing weight and staying active to support healthy bones and soft tissues
  • Avoiding high‑impact activities that stress the hip prosthesis, risking component wear
  • Following your prescribed physical therapy plan for strength, balance, and flexibility
  • Monitoring for signs of infection or hip pain, and seeking prompt treatment if symptoms arise
 

Proactive care and early treatment of minor issues can sometimes prevent the need to undergo revision surgery later.

Trust JIS Orthopedics for Expert Hip Revision Care

If you’re facing hip revision surgery in New Albany or St. Clairsville, OH, our team at JIS Orthopedics is here to help. With expertise in revision hip replacement surgery, we’re committed to restoring your mobility, relieving pain, and guiding you through every phase, from initial hip assessment to recovery and prevention.

Discover more about our hip joint services or call to schedule your consultation today.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Alexander G. Athey

  1. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/treatment/revision-total-hip-replacement/
  2. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17104-hip-revision-surgery

Treat Your Hip Pain Today!

If you are experiencing hip pain, schedule an appointment with JIS Orthopedics today. We have offices conveniently located in New Albany and St. Clairsville, OH. Our hip specialists are ready to help you relieve your hip pain!

 

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