Hip Revision Joint Replacement
Ongoing pain, instability or reduced movement after a hip replacement can feel like a major setback and affect you both physically and emotionally.
Revision hip replacement surgery addresses any problems with an existing implant, offering another opportunity to reduce pain and improve mobility.
What is Hip Revision Replacement Surgery?
Hip revision joint replacement, also known as revision hip surgery, is a procedure performed when a previous hip replacement has failed or is no longer functioning correctly. Unlike a standard (or “primary”) hip replacement, which replaces the hip joint for the first time, a revision involves removing the original implant and replacing it with new components. Because the bone, tissue, and joint may have changed since the original surgery, hip revision surgery is more complex and requires a high level of expertise.
When and Why a Revision Might Be Needed?
Patients may need a revision for several reasons, such as implant wear or loosening over time, infection around the joint, dislocation of the joint, fractures or bone loss near the implant site, and persistent pain or limited movement. These complications can occur many years after the first procedure, or sometimes much sooner.
It’s normal for artificial joints to experience wear over time, but you shouldn’t live in constant pain or instability. If you had a hip replacement and are now feeling increased discomfort, clicking or grinding in the joint, difficulty walking, or changes in leg length, you may need to consider a second opinion.
Common signs that may indicate a failed hip replacement include:
- Increasing pain that doesn’t improve with rest or medication
- Difficulty bearing weight or walking
- Feeling like the hip joint is loose or unstable
- Swelling or signs of infection (fever, redness, drainage)
- X-ray or imaging findings showing implant movement or bone damage
Hip replacements typically last 10-20 years, but complications can develop earlier. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms, early assessment is key to prevent further damage and improve outcomes.
How Ortho ARC Can Help
Your assessment with Ortho ARC includes a detailed review of your symptoms, previous surgery and imaging with an Orthopaedic Specialist.
This helps us understand what has changed and why the implant is causing problems so we can resolve it, and improve your comfort and mobility.
In revision surgery, treatment plans are individualised, accounting for the condition of the implant, bone and surrounding tissues, along with the health, mobility and goals of each patient.
You’re supported every step of the way, from detailed pre-operative planning to guided rehabilitation and follow-up care. Ortho ARC works closely with referring doctors, physiotherapists and other specialists to guide your ongoing care.
Meet our Orthopaedic Specialists
Dr Blake Fidock and Dr Mirun Thayaparan provide assessment and treatment for a range of orthopaedic conditions across Brisbane.
What to Expect: The Procedure and Recovery
Before surgery, you’ll undergo a thorough evaluation, including medical history, imaging (like X-rays or CT scans), and blood tests. Dr Fidock will explain your specific situation and recommend the best surgical plan tailored to your needs.
During the revision surgery, the old implant is carefully removed, and any damaged bone or tissue is addressed. In many cases, bone grafts or special implants are used to restore strength and alignment. The new prosthetic components are then placed to ensure proper fit and stability.
Recovery involves:
- A hospital stay of several days to monitor healing and manage pain
- Early mobilisation with support from physiotherapists
- Rehabilitation over several weeks to strengthen muscles and restore movement
- A gradual return to daily activities, often within 3-6 months depending on complexity
While revision surgery has a longer recovery than a primary replacement, most patients experience significant improvement in pain, stability, and function. Your Ortho ARC surgeon will explain your specific situation clearly and recommend a surgical plan that is tailored to your needs.
Risks and Complications of Revision Hip Surgery
As with any surgical procedure, revision hip surgery does carry certain risks. While it is often highly successful in reducing pain and restoring mobility, it’s important to understand the potential challenges involved.
- Infection: There is a slightly higher risk of infection compared to primary hip replacements. Careful surgical techniques, antibiotics, and sterile environments help reduce this risk.
- Blood Clots: Blood clots in the legs or lungs (deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism) can occur after surgery. Blood thinning medications and early mobilisation are used to prevent this.
- Dislocation of the New Joint: Revision surgery can increase the risk of hip dislocation. Special implant components and post-operative care help minimise this.
- Leg Lenth Differences: Small differences in leg length may occur, but steps are taken during surgery to balance the legs as much as possible.
- Implant Loosening or Failure Over Time: Although modern implants are highly durable, further revision surgery may eventually be needed in some cases.
At Ortho ARC, detailed planning, careful surgical technique and coordinated post-operative care are used to reduce risks and support your recovery.
Why Choose Ortho ARC for Your Hip Revision?
Choosing where to have your hip revision surgery is an important decision. Ortho ARC Orthopaedic Specialists bring fellowship training in hip and knee arthroplasty, supported by experience in orthopaedic trauma and modern surgical planning.
At Ortho ARC, we prioritise your comfort and mobility, and are committed to delivering tailored treatment plans that reflect your unique condition, goals and lifestyle.
Hip revision joint replacement can be a life-changing procedure, offering relief from pain and a chance to regain comfort, stability and independence. If you’re experiencing hip pain or mobility issues after a previous hip replacement, make an appointment with Ortho ARC.
Experience Relief. Regain Mobility.
Schedule your consultation with Ortho ARC today, and take the first step toward a pain-free, active lifestyle.