Revision Hip Replacement

Revision Hip Replacement

Revision Hip Replacement in Flint & Fenton, MI

What is Revision Hip Replacement?

During total hip replacement, the damaged cartilage and bone are removed from the hip joint and replaced with artificial components. At times, hip replacement implants can wear out for various reasons and may need to be replaced with the help of a surgical procedure known as revision hip replacement surgery.

Revision hip replacement is a complex surgical procedure in which all or part of a previously implanted hip joint is replaced with a new artificial hip joint. Total hip replacement surgery is an option to relieve severe arthritis pain that limits your daily activities. 

What are the Indications for Revision Hip Replacement?

Revision hip replacement is advised for the following conditions:

• Increasing pain in the affected hip 
• Worn out plastic or polyethylene prosthesis
• Dislocation of previous implants
• Loosening of the femoral or acetabular component of the artificial hip joint 
• Infection around the hip prosthesis, causing pain and fever
• Weakening of bone around the hip replacement (osteolysis)

What is the Procedure of Revision Hip Replacement?

Revision hip replacement surgery is performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure, your surgeon will make an incision over the hip to expose the joint. Then, the femur is dislocated from the acetabulum so that the old plastic liner and metal socket can be removed from the acetabulum.

After removal, the acetabulum is prepared using extra bone and wire mesh to make up for the socket space and shape. Then, the new metal shell is inserted into the socket using screws or special cement. A liner made of plastic, ceramic or metal is placed inside the metal socket.

To prepare the femoral component, the top of the femur bone is cut into several pieces to remove the implant. The segments of bone are cleaned and the new femoral implant is inserted into the femur either by a press fit or using bone cement. The segments of the femur and the femoral component are held together with surgical wires. Then the femoral head component made of metal or ceramic is placed on the femoral stem. All the new components are secured in place to form the new hip joint. The muscles and tendons around the new joint are repaired and the incision is closed.

What Does Postoperative Care for Revision Hip Replacement Involve?

After undergoing revision hip replacement, you must take special care to prevent the new joint from dislocating and to ensure proper healing. Some of the common precautions to be taken include:

• Avoid combined movement of bending your hip and turning your foot inwards because it can cause dislocation.
• Place a pillow between your legs while sleeping for 6 weeks.
• Never cross your legs or bend your hips past a right angle (90 degrees).
• Avoid sitting on a low chair.
• Avoid bending down to pick up things; instead, a grabber can be used to do so.
• Use an elevated toilet seat.

What are the Risks of Revision Hip Replacement?

As with any major surgical procedure, there are certain potential risks and complications involved with revision hip replacement surgery. The possible complications after revision hip replacement include:

• Infection
• Dislocation
• Fracture of the femur or pelvis
• Injury to nerves or blood vessels
• Formation of blood clots in the leg veins
• Leg length inequality
• Wearing of the hip prosthesis 
• Failure to relieve pain

Why Choose Dr. Willson for Revision Hip Replacement in Flint and Fenton, MI?

Revision hip replacement requires advanced surgical expertise and careful preoperative planning. Dr. Seann E. Willson is fellowship-trained in adult hip and knee reconstruction and provides specialized care for patients experiencing complications from previous hip replacement procedures.

Fellowship-Trained Expertise in Complex Hip Reconstruction

Revision hip replacement procedures are often more technically demanding than primary hip replacement surgery. Dr. Willson's advanced training in adult reconstruction allows her to address complex cases involving implant loosening, instability, bone loss, wear, and failed hip replacements.

Comprehensive Evaluation and Personalized Treatment

Every revision hip replacement patient has unique challenges. Dr. Willson performs a detailed assessment of your symptoms, imaging studies, implant status, and overall health to determine the most appropriate treatment approach.

Advanced Surgical Techniques

Revision procedures may require specialized implants, bone reconstruction techniques, and careful surgical planning. Dr. Willson utilizes modern surgical methods to restore hip function while addressing the underlying cause of implant failure.

Patient-Focused Care Throughout Recovery

From diagnosis and surgical planning through rehabilitation and follow-up care, Dr. Willson and her team provide comprehensive support designed to help patients achieve the best possible outcome.

Convenient Locations Serving Flint and Fenton

Patients throughout Flint, Fenton and surrounding Genesee County communities have access to expert revision hip replacement care close to home.

Revision Hip Replacement FAQs

What is revision hip replacement?

Revision hip replacement is a surgical procedure that involves removing and replacing some or all components of a previous hip replacement that has failed, worn out, loosened, become infected, or is causing ongoing symptoms.

Why might I need revision hip replacement surgery?

Common reasons include implant loosening, implant wear, recurrent dislocation, infection, instability, fracture around the implant, bone loss, or persistent pain following a previous hip replacement.

How is revision hip replacement different from primary hip replacement?

Revision hip replacement is generally more complex than a first-time hip replacement because it often involves removing existing implants, managing bone loss, and reconstructing damaged structures before placing new components.

What symptoms may indicate a failed hip replacement?

Symptoms can include persistent hip pain, difficulty walking, instability, reduced range of motion, swelling, clicking sensations, recurrent dislocations, or worsening function after a previous hip replacement.

How long does recovery take after revision hip replacement?

Recovery varies depending on the complexity of the procedure, the patient's overall health, and the extent of reconstruction required. Dr. Willson will provide a personalized recovery plan based on your specific situation.

Will I need physical therapy after revision surgery?

Most patients participate in a rehabilitation program that may include physical therapy to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and mobility following surgery.

What are the risks associated with revision hip replacement?

As with any major surgical procedure, risks may include infection, blood clots, dislocation, fracture, nerve injury, implant wear, leg length differences, and persistent symptoms. Dr. Willson will discuss these risks in detail during your consultation.

How do I know if I need revision hip replacement?

If you have previously undergone hip replacement surgery and are experiencing ongoing pain, instability, limited mobility, or other concerning symptoms, an evaluation by Dr. Willson can help determine whether revision surgery may be appropriate.

Can a worn-out hip implant be replaced?

Yes. Many revision procedures are performed because the original implant has worn out over time. Modern revision implants and reconstruction techniques can often restore function and improve quality of life.

Schedule a Revision Hip Replacement Consultation in Flint or Fenton, MI

Persistent pain or complications after hip replacement surgery should not be ignored. Dr. Seann E. Willson provides expert evaluation and advanced revision hip replacement treatment for patients throughout Flint, Fenton and surrounding Mid-Michigan communities.

Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn about your options for restoring comfort, mobility, and confidence after a failed or problematic hip replacement.

If you would like to have additional information on treatments of hip conditions or would like to learn more about revision hip replacement, please contact Dr. Willson, serving the communities of Flint & Fenton.