Revision Hip Replacement
Revision Hip Replacement Surgeon in Colorado Springs
Occasionally, artificial components implanted during total hip replacement can wear out for various reasons and may need to be replaced using a surgical procedure known as revision hip replacement. The procedure involves replacing all or part of the previous implant with a new artificial hip joint. Eric K. Jepson, DO provides diagnosis and revision hip replacement surgery in Colorado Springs. Eric K. Jepson, DO also provides highly specialized care during and after the surgery. Contact Dr. Jepson's team for an appointment today!
What is Revision Hip Replacement?
During total hip replacement, the damaged cartilage and bone are 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.
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.
What are the Indications for Revision Hip Replacement?
Revision hip replacement is advised for 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)
What is the Procedure of Revision Hip Replacement?
Revision hip replacement surgery is performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure, your surgeon will make an incision over the hip to expose the joint. Then, the femur is dislocated from the acetabulum so that the old plastic liner and metal socket can be removed from the acetabulum.
After removal, the acetabulum is prepared using extra bone and wire mesh to make up for the socket space and shape. Then, the new metal shell is inserted into the socket using screws or special cement. A liner made of plastic, ceramic or metal is placed inside the metal socket.
To prepare the femoral component, the top of the femur bone is cut into several pieces to remove the implant. The segments of bone are cleaned and the new femoral implant is inserted into the femur either by a press fit or using bone cement. The segments of the femur and the femoral component are held together with surgical 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.
What Does Postoperative Care for Revision Hip Replacement Involve?
After undergoing revision hip replacement, you must take special care to prevent the new joint from dislocating and to ensure proper healing. 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.
- Place 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 a low chair.
- Avoid bending down to pick up things; instead, a grabber can be used to do so.
- Use an elevated toilet seat.
What are the Risks of Revision Hip Replacement?
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
- Wearing of the hip prosthesis
- Failure to relieve pain
Why Choose Dr. Jepson for Revision Hip Replacement in Colorado Springs, CO?
- Board-certified orthopaedic surgeon: Dr. Jepson is certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Orthopaedic Surgery.
- Fellowship-trained joint replacement specialist: He completed advanced training in total joint arthroplasty at the Florida Orthopaedic Institute.
- Experience with complex hip conditions: His clinical interests include complex hip and knee problems, total joint replacement and revision surgery.
- Thorough diagnostic evaluation: Dr. Jepson assesses the implants, surrounding bone and soft tissues to determine why a previous hip replacement is causing problems.
- Individualized surgical planning: Each revision procedure is planned according to the condition of the implants, available bone, overall health and functional goals.
- Patient-centered communication: Dr. Jepson explains the diagnosis, available treatments, potential risks and anticipated recovery so patients can make informed decisions.
- Coordinated care and rehabilitation: CSOG’s comprehensive approach supports patients throughout preparation, surgery and postoperative recovery.
Revision Hip Replacement FAQs
The evaluation usually includes a review of symptoms and surgical history, a physical examination and imaging studies such as X-rays. Blood tests, joint aspiration or advanced imaging may be recommended when infection, implant loosening or bone loss is suspected.
Yes. Revision surgery is generally more complex because the surgeon must remove existing components and address scar tissue, bone loss or changes in the surrounding muscles and ligaments. Specialized implants, bone grafts or additional fixation devices may be needed.
The length of surgery depends on which components need to be replaced and whether infection, fracture or substantial bone loss is present. Revision procedures often take longer than primary hip replacements. Dr. Jepson can provide more specific expectations after reviewing your condition.
Patients may begin standing and walking with assistance shortly after surgery, but recovery is often longer than after an initial hip replacement. Physical therapy, activity restrictions and the use of a walker or cane may be recommended. The timeline depends on the procedure’s complexity and the patient’s overall health.
Potential risks include infection, blood clots, bleeding, fracture, dislocation, nerve or blood vessel injury, leg-length differences and continued pain. There is also a possibility that the new components may loosen or wear over time. Dr. Jepson will discuss the risks relevant to your individual case.
Schedule a Revision Hip Replacement Consultation in Colorado Springs
Persistent pain, stiffness, instability or reduced function following hip replacement should be assessed by a joint replacement specialist. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Eric K. Jepson at Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment recommendations. Contact CSOG to request an appointment at its North or South Campus for revision hip replacement care in Colorado Springs, CO, and surrounding Southern Colorado communities.
