What is a Revision Hip Replacement?

A revision hip replacement is a redo operation for people who have already had a hip replacement but now need another surgery. It involves removing some or all of the original artificial hip joint and replacing it with new parts.

While hip manyreplacements last for the rest of the patients life, sometimes problems develop that require an earlier revision.

Why Might a Hip Replacement Need Revision?

There are several reasons why a hip replacement may fail and need to be redone:

• Implant loosening or wear Over time, the parts of the artificial hip may loosen or wear out, causing pain and reduced function.
• Infection Infection around the hip joint can develop and may require replacement of the implant.
• Recurrent dislocations If the artificial joint keeps slipping out of place, a revision may be needed.
• Fracture A break in the bone around the hip implant can destabilise the previously replaced joint.
• Osteolysis (bone loss) Sometimes the body reacts to wear particles, causing bone to thin and weaken around the implant.
• Mechanical failure Rarely, the metal, plastic, or ceramic parts may break.

What Happens During Revision Surgery?

Revision hip replacement is more complex than the first (primary) surgery, because there may be bone loss, scar tissue, or weakened soft tissues.

The surgery usually involves:

• Removing the old implant (either the socket, the ball, the stem, or all components).
• Cleaning and repairing the bone and soft tissues.
• Placing new implants, often specially designed for revision cases.
• If there is bone loss, bone grafts may be used to rebuild the hip socket or femur.

The surgery typically takes longer than a primary hip replacement.

Watch video of Revision Hip Replacement

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery after revision hip surgery is often slower than after the first hip replacement.

In hospital:

• You’ll be monitored for infection, bleeding, or blood clots.
• Pain control and antibiotics will be provided.
• You may need to use walking aids (walker or crutches).
• Physiotherapy begins early to restore movement.

At home:

• Follow wound care instructions carefully.
• Keep up with prescribed physiotherapy exercises.
• Avoid bending too far or twisting the hip in the early weeks.
• Weight-bearing may be restricted depending on the type of implants and bone condition.

Recovery timeline (typical):

• Walking with support: within days to weeks.
• Return to daily activities: 6–12 weeks.
• Full recovery: 6–12 months (may be longer than first hip replacement).

Risks and Challenges

Because revision hip replacement is more complicated, the risks are slightly higher than for a first hip replacement. Possible risks include:

• Infection.
• Blood clots.
• Hip dislocation.
• Nerve or blood vessel injury.
• Leg length difference.
• Loosening or failure of the new implant.
• Ongoing pain or stiffness.

REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT