Hip replacement surgery is an effective method of treating osteoarthritis; however, a small number of patients may require an additional joint revision surgery if pain and immobility are present after the post-operative recovery period. Because joint revision surgery is a difficult procedure, it is important to have a specialized hip surgeon, such as Dr. Ballard, evaluate the condition. Schedule an appointment today.
Introduced to the United States in the 1960s, hip replacement surgery is one of the most effective solutions for treating severe cases of hip arthritis. By restoring range of motion and alleviating hip pain, patients are able to return to the activities they enjoy and love.
The majority of hip replacements will perform well into the remainder of a patient's life. Advancements in implant materials, as well as innovations in technology, have led to more durable implants with improved wear characteristics. Additionally, most hip replacement procedures are performed in older patients, who place less stress on their joints. Though 90% of implants will perform well for 10-20 years, some implants may require joint revision surgery for a number of reasons.
Hip replacement patients may require revision for a number of reasons, including loosening, infection, dislocation, or patient-specific factors.
The most common reason hip replacement patients seek revision surgery is loosened implants. Joint replacement implants are typically fixed to bone using cement that holds the implant in place. Alternatively, when the procedure is performed, the surgeon may expect bone to grow into the surface of the implant, firmly positioning the joint in place. Over time, friction can cause the joint implant to detach from the bone. Loosened implants cause pain and instability, and can lead to deformed bone growth.
Though less common, infection at the site of the hip replacement is a serious and life-threatening problem affecting a small minority of patients. The foreign metal and plastic implant surfaces can act as growth sites for bacteria, leading to infection, pain, and swelling. The fight against infection can take a toll on the patient's immune system, causing weakness and immunodeficiency.
Implant dislocation is more common in hip replacement patients than in knee patients, with the rate of dislocation for hip patients being approximately 2%. Dislocation can be caused by loosening, development of bony overgrowth or scar tissue, or neurological conditions, such as neuropathy or Parkinson's disease.
Due to a number of lifestyle factors, some hip replacement patients are more likely to require joint revision surgery. Overweight patients have a higher incidence of experiencing a loose implant, as additional weight places excess stress on the new hip joint. Patients with previous hip fractures are at a higher risk of loosening as well.
After receiving a new hip implant, patients should begin to experience less pain and increased function after the postoperative recovery period. Patients that continue to experience pain after the postoperative period may require joint revision. To properly diagnose the condition, Dr. Ballard will perform a number of assessments, including physical examination, X-rays, and laboratory tests. Through these assessments, the surgeon can identify changes in pain levels, weakened implant bonds, and signs of infection.
Hip revision surgery is a more difficult procedure compared to hip replacement surgery, so it is important that patients find a hip surgeon with training in revision surgery. Fellowship-trained in adult joint reconstruction surgery, Dr. Ballard is a joint revision specialist, and regularly performs the procedure to treat patients at his two Portland area offices.
To learn more about the treatment of failed joint replacement implants, schedule an appointment to speak with Dr. Ballard at his offices in Oregon City and Tualatin, OR.
