Have you ever had a hip replacement surgery? You probably remember how much easier your life was after that surgery. But now you've started to feel a little pain or discomfort in that hip again? Do you feel different when you walk or stand up? If so, this article will be very important for you. Today we're talking about a surgery to repair or replace an artificial hip joint, that is, a Hip Revision Surgery .
What is Hip Revision surgery?
Simply put, Hip Revision surgery is the process of repairing or replacing the artificial hip joint that was placed after your previous hip replacement surgery.
Think of it like a tire on your car. After using it for a while, it wears out, and then you have to put in a new one, right? That's how this artificial joint is. Over time, with daily activities, it can also have some problems. That's when you need to go for a second surgery like this.
You may need this surgery for one or more of the following reasons:
| Reason for undergoing surgery | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Normal wear and tear | This joint is used every time we walk, run, or work. Over the years, parts of it can wear out. |
| Loosening of the joint | The bone holding the artificial joint can start to loosen, which can cause pain. |
| Dislocation | Sometimes the ball of the artificial joint can pop out of the cup it is in. |
| Infection | Infection around the artificial joint after surgery is a serious condition. This can cause pain and swelling. |
| Broken bone | One of your bones around the artificial joint could break in an accident. |
| Alignment issues | Discomfort can occur if the artificial joint is not positioned at the correct angle. |
When this type of problem occurs, you will feel pain in your hip area and you will not be able to use your hip properly. The main goal of this surgery is to restore the function of your hip and eliminate the pain.
Why do I need another surgery like this?
You may be wondering, "Why do I need to have another surgery?" In fact, the artificial joint, or prosthesis, that was inserted during the first surgery is not permanent. The average lifespan of a hip replacement is between 10 and 20 years . This can vary depending on your daily activities and how you use the joint.
It's just like a car. To keep it running well, it needs to be serviced and maintained on time. That's what Hip Revision surgery is all about.
Especially if there is an infection around the joint, it needs to be treated quickly. Because an infection can damage your bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Doctors recommend this surgery to prevent that damage.
How do you prepare before surgery?
This is also a major surgery, so good preparation is required. This preparation usually begins about a month before the surgery.
Meeting with the doctor
Before the surgery, your doctor and the medical team will meet with you and explain the surgery and its risks to you. Also,
- You will be given a complete physical exam.
- Ask about your complete medical history.
- Find out details about the medications and vitamins you are currently taking.
Required medical tests
You will need to undergo several tests to see if you are suitable for the surgery.
- Blood tests (Lab testing)
- Urine analysis
- Electrocardiogram (EKG) test
- Hip X-rays
Preparing at home
To make your home comfortable after surgery, it is very important to prepare your home environment in advance.
| What to do | Why is that? |
|---|---|
| Arrange for someone to help. | It will be difficult for you to work alone in the first few weeks after surgery. |
| Quit or reduce smoking. | Smoking delays wound healing and increases the risk of infection. |
| Remove dangerous things from the house | Remove slippery rugs and wires that run along the floor. These can cause tripping and falling. |
| Keep the goods close by. | Move frequently needed kitchen items, such as food and drinks, to a shelf at waist or shoulder level. |
| Arrange the sleeping area downstairs. | Since it can be difficult to climb and descend stairs after surgery, arrange a room on the ground floor if possible. |
| Use assistive devices. | Things like an elevated toilet seat, a bathroom chair, and a grasping device to help you put on socks and shoes can be helpful. |
Do you also need to think about dental health?
Yes, absolutely. You may be wondering what the connection is between a dental problem and a hip operation. But there is a big connection. Germs in your mouth can get into your bloodstream and travel to the newly operated site, causing an infection. So, your doctor may recommend that you see a dentist before your surgery to get your teeth cleaned and any cavities treated.
How is the surgery done?
During the surgery, the surgeon removes all or only the necessary parts of your old artificial hip joint and replaces them with new ones.
However, if there is a severe infection , the surgery will have to be done in two stages.
1. First surgery: The old artificial joint is removed and antibiotics are given to eliminate the infection.
2. Second surgery: After the infection is completely healed, a new artificial joint is implanted.
This surgery usually takes about two hours .
What to expect after surgery?
After the surgery, you will need to stay in the hospital for a few days. During that time, the medical team will monitor your condition closely. After you go home, you should follow the instructions below.
- Take the medication prescribed to reduce pain and prevent blood clots on time.
- Be sure to go to follow-up appointments with the doctor and physical therapy appointments.
- For the first 4-6 weeks, keep both legs elevated on a pillow when resting.
- Use a walker or cane until you can put full weight on your hip.
- Hold on to the handrails when going up and down stairs. Avoid using stairs immediately after surgery.
What are the benefits and risks of this surgery?
Benefits of surgery
- Freedom from pain.
- Improved mobility, strength, and balance.
- Being able to return to your normal daily activities.
Possible risks
Like any surgery, this one has some risks.
- Lung or heart complications due to anesthesia.
- Infection.
- Blood clots.
- Scarring.
- Damage to nerves or blood vessels.
- Joint weakness or instability.
- There is a small chance that more surgeries will be needed in the future.
Your surgeon will explain these risks to you thoroughly before the surgery.
How long will it take to heal?
It takes about six months to fully recover.It may take a while. For a while after surgery, things like getting into a car or climbing stairs will be difficult. There may be a slight limp and some pain when walking. But these things should go away completely after about six months.
To recover quickly, you need to follow the instructions given by your doctor and physical therapist exactly. It is very important to exercise your legs and keep them elevated.
After about a month, the doctor will take an X-ray to see how your hip is healing.
When should I call the doctor immediately?
If you have any of the following symptoms after surgery, call your doctor immediately. You may need to go to the hospital's Emergency Department (ETU).
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Changes in the surgical site | Redness, discoloration, severe swelling, drainage, blisters, or pimples around the wound (these may be signs of infection) |
| Severe pain | The pain is getting worse day by day, and it cannot be controlled even with medication. |
| Dizziness, chest pain, difficulty breathing | Leg pain can be a sign of a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), while chest pain and shortness of breath can be a sign of a blood clot traveling to the lungs (Pulmonary Embolism). These are very serious emergencies. |
| Any other suspicious changes | Inform your doctor about any changes that seem strange or suspicious to you. |
Take-Home Message
- Hip Revision surgery is the repair or replacement of a previously implanted artificial hip joint due to wear, loosening, or infection.
- Since this is also a major surgery, things like preparing your home environment and taking care of your dental health beforehand can make the recovery time easier.
- Physical therapy is essential for the success of the surgery, so never skip those exercises.
- Watch for warning signs after surgery, such as pain, swelling, drainage from the wound, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these, seek medical advice immediately.
- Going through surgery for the second time can be emotionally difficult. Talk openly with your doctor about any questions or fears you may have.
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