Hip revision surgery can restore independence and quality of life for people whose artificial hip joint is malfunctioning or has deteriorated after many years of use. Your orthopedic surgeon in Boynton Beach, FL, is the person to see for a full evaluation of your previously operated hip and to outline your treatment options.
Let’s learn about total hip replacement and the reasons why you may need a hip revision procedure.
What Is Hip Replacement Surgery?
Approximately 2.5 million American adults live with artificial hip components. These metal, plastic, or ceramic replacement parts mimic the size, strength, and function of the upper thigh bone (femur) and socket (acetabulum) in this major weight-bearing joint.
The most common reason why people need a total hip replacement, or hip arthroplasty, is osteoarthritis (OA), a chronic condition that wears down bone ends and cartilage, which is responsible for the joint moving seamlessly. The hip and the knee are the most frequently replaced joints. Some people undergo less common shoulder and ankle joint replacements for similar reasons.
Besides OA, the other conditions which necessitate hip replacement are:
- Traumatic injury to the hip
- Sports injury and resulting arthritis
- Tumors
- Avascular necrosis (bone death due to lack of blood supply)
What Is Hip Revision Surgery?
Hip revision surgery is a procedure that removes defective prosthetics from a previously operated hip joint and installs new ones. Some people need all the components replaced, while others may need only partial replacement. Like total hip replacement, hip revision surgery is highly individualized and requires rehabilitation afterwards to maximize success.
Why Would I Need Hip Revision Surgery?
Most people who undergo hip revision surgery do so because they experience:
- Increasing pain
- Difficulty walking, going up and down stairs, getting in and out of a car, and when performing their usual activities of daily living
- Symptoms not responsive to pain medications, supportive devices, and physical therapy, which is meant to improve strength and range of motion
Accordingly, they may elect to explore surgical options with their orthopedic surgeon. After a review of your symptoms, digital imaging, and a physical examination, your hip doctor may recommend a surgical procedure to correct issues arising since the previous hip replacement.
The following are common reasons why hip revision surgery is pursued.
The Implant Parts Are Old
Hip replacement components usually last about 20 years. With younger arthroplasty patients, there is the potential for the prosthetics to wear out, causing pain and stiffness. Older components may simply break or loosen (aseptic loosening), as well.
An Infection Develops
People with compromised immune systems (due to diabetes, cancer treatment, or other conditions) may develop an implant-threatening infection in surrounding bone. This is why hip replacement patients must complete a course of antibiotics after surgery. If they do not, bacteria can enter the surgical wound and precipitate infection. If a hip joint becomes infected and cannot be treated with medicine, revision surgery may be necessary.
The Hip Fractures or Dislocates
Some people experience a fracture around the implant parts. The resulting bone fragments can cause substantial hip pain. Sometimes, metal fragments break loose from the implant, necessitating hip revision surgery.
Besides fracture, hip replacements can dislocate–that is, the ball end of the femur, or thigh bone, can disengage from the acetabulum, or socket. To prevent this complication, patients should undergo extensive physical therapy to strengthen the muscles that help move the hip properly.
Hip Revision Surgery Near Me in Boynton Beach
At Personalized Orthopedics of The Palm Beaches, our highly qualified team of six orthopedic surgeons and their support staff perform this individualized procedure and guide patients of all ages through full recovery.
If you have concerns about your hip joint prosthesis and wish to explore treatment, please contact us for a consultation. Call (561) 933-5888, or request your appointment by filling out our appointment request form.
