Revision Hip Replacement in Seattle, WA

What is a Revision Hip Replacement?

Revision Hip Replacement is a medical procedure designed to address issues that may arise after an initial hip replacement surgery. It is typically performed to replace a previously implanted artificial hip joint.

When is a Revision Hip Replacement Necessary?

While hip replacement surgeries are generally successful, there are cases where revisions become necessary.

This is typically due to:

  • Wear and tear
  • Implant failure
  • Alignment issues
  • The hip implant becoming loose with the potential for joint dislocation
  • Feelings of pain, instability, or discomfort
  • Other complications such as infection or fracture

Goals of Revision Hip Replacement Surgery

The primary goal of hip revision surgery is to:

  • Restore functionality
  • Reduce pain
  • Improve the overall quality of life

Over time, your hip replacement is susceptible to normal wear and tear from frequent use. Hip revision surgery is the maintenance or repair that your artificial hip joint needs to keep functioning as expected.

The Revision Hip Replacement Procedure

If you are contemplating a revision hip replacement, you can expect the following:

  • Preoperative Evaluation – discussion with Dr. Williams including imaging studies to assess the condition of the existing hip implant and surrounding bone
  • Surgery – during the surgery, the surgeon removes the problematic components of the original implant, addresses any issues with the surrounding bone, and replaces the implant with new components
  • Recovery – you may need to spend a few days in the hospital to manage pain and mobility
  • Rehabilitation – physical therapy to help patients regain strength, mobility, and function
  • Return to Activities – as you move through your rehabilitation, you will talk with Dr. Williams about returning to daily activities based on your healing and recovery

Is a Revision Hip Replacement the Same as my First Hip Surgery?

Although both procedures have the same goals—to relieve pain and improve function and quality of life—revision surgery is different than primary total hip replacement.

Revision hip replacement is a longer, more complex procedure. It requires extensive planning, as well as the use of specialized implants and tools, in order to achieve a good result.

There are several options for revision hip surgery:

  • In some cases, only some components of the prosthesis need to be revised
  • In other cases, the whole prosthesis needs to be removed or replaced
  • Sometimes the bone around the hip needs to be rebuilt with augments (metal pieces that substitute for missing bone)
  • Other times a bone graft is necessary

Am I a Candidate?

The majority of  patients who receive a hip replacement retain the implant for 15 to 20 years. This can typically last for their lifetime. However, some patients may need one or more revisions of a hip replacement.

This is especially true if:

  • The initial hip replacement surgery is performed at a young age
  • The patient chooses to have a very active physical lifestyle

Schedule Your Appointment Today with Dr. Carlos Williams

Schedule your appointment today with Dr. Carlos Williams to explore your options for revision hip replacement. Our expert team is dedicated to helping you restore functionality, reduce pain, and improve your overall quality of life.