A hip replacement revision surgery is needed when the original hip replacement fails or wears down. This can happen for a number of reasons, including infection, years of wear and tear, or dislocation. Symptoms that may indicate the need for a revision include pain, instability, and loss of range of motion in the hip joint. If you have any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor to determine if revision surgery is necessary.
5 Benefits of Hip Replacement Revision Surgery
If you’re considering hip replacement revision surgery, you may be wondering what the benefits are. Let’s take a look.
- Pain relief – A common reason why people undergo revision surgery is to get relief from chronic pain, as a failed implant will invariably cause symptoms that can be likened to the symptoms of a diseased hip joint. The pain can linger even after months of physical rehabilitation and regular use of painkillers.
- Eliminate swelling – A definitive symptom of a failed hip replacement is swelling in the hip area. This is often accompanied by pain and stiffness.
- Increased mobility – One of the main reasons why people opt for revision surgery is because they want to regain lost mobility. This type of surgery can help increase your range of motion and make it easier for you to perform everyday activities.
- Prevent the spread of infection – An infected hip is a common cause of the implant failing. An infection from elsewhere in the body can also affect the hip. Once bacteria access the area, it is not easily treated with antibiotics, and the implant may need to be replaced.
- Better function– Patients who get revision hip surgery report better functioning hips. The new implant is better able to serve its purpose, thus allowing the body to function well.
Hip replacement revision surgery offers many potential benefits that can greatly improve a person’s quality of life. If you’re suffering from chronic hip pain or reduced mobility, talk to your doctor about revision hip replacement.
What Happens During Hip Replacement Revision Surgery?
This type of surgery is usually more complex than the original hip replacement and may require different techniques depending on the individual’s case. The surgeon will make incisions to access the damaged hip joint and remove any existing hardware, such as screws or metal plates. They will then prepare the bone for a new implant by cleaning out any debris and removing any damaged tissue. The new implant will be placed in position and secured with screws or metal plates before being checked for proper alignment. Once everything is in place, the surgeon will close up the incisions with stitches or staples.
Recovery from revision surgery can take longer than recovery from the initial hip replacement due to increased surgical time and complexity. You can expect to stay in the hospital for 3-5 days after surgery, so your medical team can closely monitor your progress and pain levels. You will need to do physical therapy during your hospital stay, as well as once you are discharged home. In addition, it’s important to avoid putting too much weight on your new hip until it heals properly, which could take several weeks.
Hip Replacement Revision Surgery in Boynton Beach, FL
Hip replacement revision is a very complex surgery that should only be placed in the hands of a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who is highly skilled and experienced in performing hip revision surgeries. At Personalized Orthopedics of the Palm Beaches, we specialize in correcting painful hip replacements. You can expect comprehensive services from us that includes an individualized physical therapy rehabilitation program. We are committed to giving you relief from painful symptoms and restoring your mobility.
To schedule a consultation, call our office today at (561) 733-5888 or use our convenient online request form.