Revision Hip Replacement
Revision Hip Replacement in Auburn Hills, MI
Nicholas B Frisch, MD | MBA is a fellowship-trained, board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee replacement, outpatient surgery, robotic-assisted procedures, complex revision and advanced technology. He performs complex hip reconstruction and revision joint replacement surgery. Patients throughout Auburn Hills and the surrounding communities of Southeast Michigan trust Dr. Frisch for expert evaluation and personalized treatment of failed or problematic hip replacements, helping them return to a more active and comfortable lifestyle.
Although modern hip replacement implants are designed for long-term durability, some patients may eventually require revision hip replacement due to implant wear, loosening, instability, infection, or other complications. Revision hip replacement is a highly specialized procedure that involves replacing part or all of a previous hip implant to restore joint function, relieve pain, and improve mobility.
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. During total hip replacement, the damaged cartilage and bone is 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.
Indications
Revision hip replacement is advised in patients with 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)
Revision hip replacement surgery is performed under general or regional anesthesia. Revision surgery may involve simply replacing the hip liner, removal and replacement of one or both components. During the procedure, your surgeon will make an incision over the hip to expose the hip joint. The decision on which surgical approach to use will be variable and may ultimately depend on which approach was utilized for the original hip replacement procedure. Typically, the posterior approach has been favored during revision surgery, however if an anterior approach was used it is reasonable to consider revision through the original anterior incision. Once the incision has been made and the hip joint is exposed, the femur is dislocated from the acetabulum so that the old plastic liner can be removed from the cup.
If the metal cup requires removal, it will be done carefully to avoid excessive bone loss. After removal, the acetabulum is assessed and prepared to accommodate a new metal cup. In the event of significant bone loss, additional bone or metal augments may be used to recreate the acetabulum in order to accommodate a new metal cup. Then the new metal cup is inserted into the socket. Typically screws or special cement may be used to increase the stability of the new cup. A liner made of plastic, ceramic or metal is placed inside the metal socket.
If the femoral component requires replacement, every attempt is made to do so carefully to avoid bone loss. In some cases, depending on the implant or the bone quality, it is necessary to remove part of the bone in order to take the femoral component out. The bone is cleaned of any debris and the new femoral implant is inserted into the femur either by a press fit or using bone cement. If it was necessary to remove part of the bone, those segments are carefully placed back over the new implant and typically secured with surgical cables or 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.
After undergoing revision hip replacement, you must take special care to prevent the new joint from dislocating and to ensure proper healing. The specific precautions will vary depending on the extent of the revision procedure and the approach used. 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.
- Keep 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 low chairs.
- Avoid bending down to pick up things; instead, a grabber can be used.
- Use an elevated toilet seat.
- In some circumstances, weight bearing may be limited initially after surgery to ensure maximum stability and reduce the risk of implant failure or dislocation.
- If there is extensive soft tissue damage or debridement necessary, it may be necessary to wear a special brace for a period of time after surgery.
Risks
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
- Hip prosthesis may wear out
- Failure to relieve pain
In the event of an emergency dial 911.
In the event of a concerning post-operative complication, please contact us immediately for prompt support. Most concerns can be appropriately addressed by our team and we will make every effort to be available to you in a timely fashion. Avoid going to the Emergency Department for surgical issues unless necessary, or unless instructed by our team.
Additional Resources
Why Choose Dr. Nicholas B. Frisch for Revision Hip Replacement in Auburn Hills, MI?
Revision hip replacement is often more complex than primary hip replacement surgery and requires advanced surgical expertise. Dr. Frisch provides comprehensive care for patients experiencing complications or failure of previous hip replacement procedures.
Fellowship-Trained Hip Reconstruction and Revision Specialist
Dr. Frisch specializes in hip and knee reconstruction, including complex revision procedures for worn, loose, unstable, or failed hip implants.
Experience Managing Complex Hip Conditions
Revision surgery often involves addressing bone loss, implant loosening, instability, infection, or previous surgical complications. Dr. Frisch develops individualized treatment strategies based on each patient's unique condition.
Advanced Surgical Planning
Comprehensive preoperative evaluation and detailed surgical planning help optimize implant selection, reconstructive techniques, and overall outcomes.
Personalized Patient Care
Every patient receives a customized treatment plan designed around their symptoms, medical history, lifestyle goals, and long-term joint health needs.
Comprehensive Recovery Support
From diagnosis through postoperative rehabilitation, Dr. Frisch and his team provide ongoing guidance and support throughout every stage of treatment and recovery.
Serving Southeast Michigan Communities
Conveniently located in Auburn Hills, Dr. Frisch serves patients from Rochester Hills, Troy, Bloomfield Hills, Pontiac, Birmingham, Lake Orion, Clarkston, Sterling Heights, and surrounding Southeast Michigan communities.
Revision Hip Replacement FAQs
What is revision hip replacement?
Revision hip replacement is a surgical procedure that replaces part or all of a previously implanted hip replacement when the original implant has failed, worn out, become loose, dislocated, or developed other complications.
Why might I need revision hip replacement surgery?
Common reasons include implant wear, loosening of components, recurrent dislocation, infection, bone loss around the implant, fractures, or persistent pain after a previous hip replacement.
Is revision hip replacement more complex than primary hip replacement?
Yes. Revision surgery is typically more complex because it may involve removing existing implants, managing bone loss, addressing soft tissue deficiencies, and reconstructing damaged areas of the hip joint.
How do I know if my hip replacement is failing?
Symptoms may include increasing hip pain, instability, difficulty walking, decreased mobility, swelling, recurrent dislocations, or changes seen on imaging studies. A thorough evaluation can determine the cause of your symptoms.
How long is recovery after revision hip replacement?
Recovery varies depending on the complexity of the procedure, the condition of the bone and soft tissues, and the extent of reconstruction required. Dr. Frisch will discuss your expected recovery timeline based on your specific situation.
Can a revision hip replacement restore function and relieve pain?
In many cases, revision hip replacement can significantly improve joint function, reduce pain, and enhance quality of life when performed for the appropriate indications.
Schedule a Revision Hip Replacement Consultation in Auburn Hills, MI
If you are experiencing pain, instability, or complications after a previous hip replacement, specialized evaluation and treatment can help determine the best path forward. Dr. Nicholas B. Frisch provides advanced revision hip replacement care for patients throughout Auburn Hills and Southeast Michigan.
Take the next step toward restoring comfort, stability, and mobility. Contact our Auburn Hills office today to schedule a consultation and learn whether revision hip replacement may be the right solution for your condition.
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