Revision Hip Replacement

The most common reason for requiring revision is loosening of the old implant. Loosening usually occurs slowly over many years, with the artificial hip joint becoming increasingly painful over time. Other reasons for requiring revision hip replacement include infection, dislocation or fracture.

Revision hip replacement procedures are very variable, depending on the problem and the requirements of the operation. In general, revision is technically more demanding than ‘first time’ hip replacements and is associated with a higher risk of complications.

Revision hip replacement often involves the removal of failed implant(s) and insertion of new components. In addition, as a result of the gradual loosening process over time, bone quality may be compromised and a bone grafting may be required. In the case of infection, a ‘two-stage’ revision may be recommended – this is where the old implants are removed and the final implants are inserted in a second procedure after the infection has been treated and eradicated.