Revision Hip Replacement Surgeon in New York, NY
Occasionally, artificial components implanted during total hip replacement can wear out for various reasons and may need to be replaced using a surgical procedure known as revision hip replacement. The procedure involves replacing all or part of the previous implant with a new artificial hip joint. Morteza Meftah, M.D., Hip and Knee Joint Reconstruction Specialist provides diagnosis and revision hip replacement surgery in New York, NY. Morteza Meftah, M.D., Hip and Knee Joint Reconstruction Specialist also provides highly specialized care during and after the surgery. Contact Morteza Meftah, M.D., Hip and Knee Joint Reconstruction Specialist’s team for an appointment today!
What is Revision Hip Replacement?
Revision hip replacement is a surgical procedure performed to repair or replace a previous hip replacement that is no longer functioning properly. Depending on the reason for revision and the condition of the existing implant and surrounding bone and soft tissues, the surgeon may replace one or more components of the artificial hip.
Unlike primary hip replacement, revision surgery can be more complex because the patient may have bone loss, scar tissue, damaged soft tissues, infection, or other changes resulting from the original surgery.
The specific approach to revision surgery depends on the cause of the problem, the condition of the existing components, the amount of available bone, and the patient's overall health.
When is Revision Hip Replacement Recommended?
Revision hip replacement may be recommended when a previous hip replacement becomes painful, unstable, damaged, infected, or otherwise fails to function properly.
Possible reasons for revision surgery include:
- Persistent or increasing pain in the hip
- Loosening of the femoral or acetabular component
- Wear or damage of the implant components
- Recurrent dislocation or instability
- Infection around the hip prosthesis
- Bone loss around the implant, also known as osteolysis
- Fracture around the hip replacement
- Implant failure or breakage
- Significant changes in the position or function of the implant
Not every painful hip replacement requires revision surgery. Your surgeon will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies to determine the underlying cause and whether revision surgery is appropriate.
How is Revision Hip Replacement Performed?
Revision hip replacement is performed under anesthesia. The surgical approach and specific steps vary depending on the reason for revision and the condition of the existing hip replacement.
During surgery, the surgeon accesses the hip joint and carefully evaluates the existing implant, surrounding bone, and soft tissues. One or more components of the previous hip replacement may then be removed.
If there is bone loss, the surgeon may use specialized implants, bone graft material, or other reconstructive techniques to restore the structure and stability of the hip. The replacement components are selected and positioned based on the patient's individual anatomy and the amount of remaining bone.
In some cases, specialized implants may be used to provide additional fixation or stability. If infection is present, additional procedures may be necessary to remove infected tissue and treat the infection. The specific treatment plan depends on the type and extent of the infection.
After the new components are positioned and the hip is stable, the surgeon repairs the surrounding tissues and closes the incision.
Because revision hip replacement is highly individualized, the exact surgical technique varies from patient to patient.
What Can I Expect After Revision Hip Replacement?
Recovery after revision hip replacement can vary considerably depending on the complexity of the procedure, the patient's overall health, bone quality, and whether additional reconstruction or treatment for infection was required.
Postoperative care may include:
- Pain management with prescribed medications
- Temporary use of a walker, cane, or crutches
- Following weight-bearing instructions provided by your surgeon
- Physical therapy and prescribed exercises
- Measures to reduce the risk of blood clots
- Following hip precautions when recommended
- Attending scheduled follow-up appointments
Your surgeon will provide specific instructions regarding movement, weight bearing, sleeping positions, driving, exercise, and returning to work and other activities.
Hip precautions are not identical for every patient. Depending on the surgical approach and individual circumstances, your surgeon may recommend avoiding certain hip positions or movements during the early stages of recovery.
What are the Risks of Revision Hip Replacement?
Revision hip replacement is a complex surgical procedure and may have a higher risk of complications than primary hip replacement. Your surgeon will discuss the potential risks and benefits with you before surgery.
Possible complications include:
- Infection
- Dislocation or instability
- Fracture of the femur or pelvis
- Injury to nerves or blood vessels
- Blood clots, including deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism
- Leg-length difference
- Implant loosening, wear, or failure
- Bone loss
- Persistent pain or stiffness
- Delayed healing
- The need for additional surgery
The risks vary depending on the reason for revision, the complexity of the procedure, the patient's medical history, and other individual factors.