Hip revision surgery is performed to repair an artificial hip joint (prosthesis) that has been damaged over time due to an infection, or due to normal wear and tear of the prosthetic hip. Revision surgery helps to correct the problem so the hip can function normally again.
The use of artificial hip implants is extremely effective in improving hip joints that are damaged by injury or some form of arthritis. Artificial joints, including hip joints, do not last forever. The typical life of an artificial hip joint is 10-15 years, depending on the patient’s daily use of the joint. Patients with artificial hip joints are typically over the age of 55 and have developed severe arthritis in the hip. After a period of normal wear and tear of the hip joint, the prosthesis does not fit as securely and is not as effective. In these cases, hip revision surgery may be recommended by doctor.
Revision surgery may also be recommended if an infection has developed in the tissue surrounding the joint. If infected, the muscle, tendon and ligament tissues in the hip joint will become weakened and damaged. The infection will also damage the hip bone.
The main reason for hip revision surgery is to repair an artificial hip implant that may be no longer securely attached to the bone, resulting in abnormal motion that causes pain for the patient. Hip revision surgery is an attempt to repair the hip and restore it to a condition where it can function normally.
Relief from pain is the main benefit of having hip revision surgery. Many patients may find that hip revision surgery improves mobility, strength and coordination of the torso and leg, in addition to improving the appearance of the hip and leg. Revision surgery may enable patients to return once again to normal activity with a pain-free hip. But keep in mind that successful hip revision surgery is also contingent on the patient’s diligence with his or her rehabilitation program following surgery.