A revision hip replacement is surgery to change some or all of a previous hip replacement. Modern hip replacements are durable and most last many years, but a small proportion need revising over a lifetime. This page explains why revisions happen and how they are assessed — and includes important information about which revision referrals I accept.
What “Revision” Means
A revision replaces one or more parts of an existing artificial hip — the socket, the ball, the liner, the stem, or a combination. It is a different and generally more complex undertaking than a first-time (primary) hip replacement, because the surgeon is working with an existing implant, altered anatomy and, sometimes, reduced bone.
Why a Hip Replacement Might Need Revising
Reasons a hip replacement may eventually need revision include wear of the bearing surfaces over many years, loosening of a component from the bone, infection, dislocation or instability, a fracture around the implant, or a problem with a specific implant type.
Some of these develop slowly over decades; others can occur earlier. Assessment typically involves a detailed history, examination, X-rays, blood tests and sometimes additional imaging or a joint aspiration.
Revision surgery is planned around the individual hip — the implant that's in place, the bone that's left, and the reason it needs revising. It is careful, individualised work.
- Dr Chien-Wen LiewImportant Information About Referrals
My revision practice is limited to patients whose original hip replacement I performed. I no longer accept referrals for revision of hip replacements carried out by other surgeons.
If you are seeking revision of a hip replacement performed elsewhere, these cases are best managed by a dedicated revision (complex) arthroplasty service, and your GP or original surgeon can direct you to an appropriate specialist. This ensures revision cases are cared for within the service best set up to manage them.
Making a Primary Hip Replacement Last
The best revision is the one that is never needed. The longevity of a hip replacement is influenced by many factors, including implant choice, accurate placement and the individual patient.
Getting the primary replacement right — with careful planning and technique — is central to my practice.
Where I Fit
For people considering a first-time hip replacement — once conservative options for hip arthritis have been exhausted and replacement is indicated — I provide primary total hip replacement in Adelaide using the direct anterior approach with 3D planning and patient-specific instrumentation.
For my own patients who later need revision, I manage that care. For revision of another surgeon's hip, please seek a dedicated revision service as above.
Orthopaedic Surgeon, Adelaide
Frequently Asked Questions
Considering Hip Replacement?
A plain-English guide to hip replacement, revision, and when to seek a specialist opinion.