Revision Hip Surgery – Mr Mark Edmondson

What are the reasons for revision hip surgery?

There are many causes of a painful hip replacement. Those that may require revision surgery include:
Infection
Loose components, due to wear and tear, chronic infection, microscopic debris within the joint from wear particles at the bearing surface, or fractures around the joint replacement
Toxic debris from the bearing surfaces, most often seen where both sides of the bearing surface are made from metal

What are the results of redo hip surgery like?

It was generally believed that the first attempt at a joint replacement is the best, and that any redo surgery is never as good. It is still firmly believed that the “first shot is the best shot”, but if a hip replacement has gone wrong for whatever reason, revision hip surgery becomes necessary. Fortunately, as surgical techniques, instruments and implants have evolved and improved in recent years, the majority of revision surgery now gives excellent, long-lasting results.

Your Recovery, Week by Week

Day 1-2

Most patients begin walking with a walker or crutches the same day or the day after surgery, similar to a primary hip replacement, though the hospital stay is often slightly longer to allow closer monitoring and pain control.

Weeks to Months

Rehabilitation is typically more structured than after a first-time hip replacement, since revision surgery involves managing scar tissue and often weaker bone or muscle.

Return to Work

This typically takes around 12 to 26 weeks (three to six months), depending on the complexity of the revision and the type of work involved.

By 3 Months

Recovery after revision surgery tends to progress at its own pace, and can take somewhat longer to settle than after a primary hip replacement, reflecting the more complex nature of the procedure.

Up to 12-18 Months

Full recovery can take longer than after a primary hip replacement, particularly where bone grafting or muscle or tendon reattachment was needed during surgery.