Hip Surgery

Revision Hip Replacement

Revision hip replacement involves removing a previously installed hip implant that has worn out, loosened, or developed complications, replacing it with specialized reconstructive components to rebuild stability and alleviate pain.

Schedule a Consultation Call (833) 667-3627

Board-Certified Surgeon Rush University Fellowship 900+ 5-Star Reviews

Active patient enjoying life after Revision Hip Replacement with Dr. Ali H. Sobh, MD

Back to an active life

On This Page

Recovery

Structured rehabilitation tailored to complex anatomical reconstruction requirements.

Clinical Focus

Bone stock restoration, custom modular revision implants, stability reconstruction.

Ideal Candidate

Patients with previous hip replacements experiencing pain, instability, or implant loosening.

Understanding Your Procedure

In-Depth: Revision Hip Replacement

A clear, comprehensive look at what this procedure is, how it works, and why it may be the right choice for you.

is a complex reconstructive procedure performed when a previous hip replacement has failed. Unlike primary hip replacement, which replaces a diseased joint with implants, revision surgery must first remove the existing —often from bone that has weakened or been damaged over time—and then rebuild the joint with specialized components designed to compensate for lost bone stock.Hip implants can fail for several reasons: the may loosen from the bone over decades of use (aseptic ), the bearing surfaces may wear and generate debris that causes bone loss (osteolysis), the hip may repeatedly dislocate, a periprosthetic fracture may occur, or an infection may develop. Each failure mode requires a different revision strategy, and Dr. Sobh carefully diagnoses the specific cause before planning the reconstruction.Revision hip surgery is significantly more complex than primary replacement. The old must be extracted without further damaging fragile bone, lost bone must be rebuilt with grafts or metal augments, and specialized modular revision stems and cups must be implanted to achieve stability. Dr. Sobh's fellowship at Rush University specifically included this complex training, and he is recognized across metro Detroit for his expertise in managing failed hip replacements from other surgeons.

Revision Hip Replacement anatomical illustration

Revision Hip Replacement — illustrated overview of the surgical approach and implant placement.

20-30+

Years Implant Lifespan

90%+

Patient Satisfaction

24h

Walking Post-Op

<1%

Complication Rate

What Makes This Approach Different

Modular Revision Implants

Revision hips use modular components that can be assembled intra-operatively to address specific patterns of bone loss and instability, something primary implants cannot do.

Bone Grafting & Augmentation

Lost bone is rebuilt using allograft bone, metal augments, or reinforcing cages (cage reconstruction) to create a stable foundation for the new .

Infection Management Protocol

Infected hips require a specialized two-stage protocol: removing the , placing an antibiotic spacer, and re-implanting after the infection is cleared.

Custom Reconstruction Planning

Each revision is unique. Dr. Sobh uses advanced CT imaging and 3D planning to map the bone loss and plan the exact reconstructive strategy before surgery.

Clinical information reviewed and edited by Dr. Ali H. Sobh, MD, board-certified orthopedic surgeon. Content synthesized from peer-reviewed orthopedic literature, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) guidelines, and Dr. Sobh's fellowship training at Rush University Medical Center. Last updated 2025.

Watch & Learn

Understanding Revision Hip Replacement

These medically accurate videos explain why hip replacements may fail over time and how revision surgery removes worn or loose components, manages bone loss, and restores joint stability with specialized revision implants.

3D Animation2:10 min

Hip Replacement & Revision — Animation

The Scopic Vision's 3D animation covers hip replacement surgery, including how revision procedures replace worn or failed prosthetic components. Explains the types of hip replacement, minimally invasive and robotic techniques, and when revision becomes necessary.

Source: The Scopic Vision — 84K+ views

Expert Lecture57:49 min

Revision Hip Arthroplasty — Comprehensive Guide

Dr. Jibanananda Satpathy of VCU Health System presents a detailed lecture on complex revision hip arthroplasty — covering the causes of implant failure, bone loss classification, acetabular reconstruction techniques, and the decision-making process for revision surgery.

Source: Orthopaedic Principles — Dr. Jibanananda Satpathy, VCU

Dr. Sobh's Revision Hip Expertise

Revision hip surgery is one of the most complex procedures in orthopedics. Dr. Sobh's subspecialty fellowship training at Rush University Medical Center — a national leader in revision arthroplasty — equips him to manage failed hip replacements, bone loss, infection, and instability with advanced reconstructive techniques.

Videos embedded from YouTube for patient educational purposes. Dr. Dr. Ali H. Sobh, MD reviews all educational content on this page. Sources: The Scopic Vision and Orthopaedic Principles (Dr. Jibanananda Satpathy, VCU Health).

Interactive Education

See How Your Joint Works

Understanding your condition is the first step toward confident decisions. Use this interactive visualizer to explore the anatomy of the hip joint, compare a healthy joint with an arthritic one, and see exactly what revision hip replacement restores.

1
Toggle states to compare healthy, arthritic, and post-surgical joints.
2
Tap the dots to learn about each anatomical structure.
3
Watch the motion to see how the joint moves during activity.

Interactive Joint Visualizer

Explore how revision hip replacement works

For Education

Front View

100%

Tap the dots to explore the joint anatomy

Arthritic / Damaged

Illustration for educational purposes. Not a diagnostic image.

Recognizing the Signs

Common Symptoms

Many patients live with joint pain for years before seeking treatment. If you recognize several of these symptoms, it may be time to schedule a consultation.

When to seek care

If your symptoms interfere with sleep, work, or activities you enjoy, or if conservative treatments no longer provide relief, a surgical consultation is appropriate.

New or worsening pain in a previously pain-free hip replacement

Groin or thigh pain that develops months or years after hip surgery

A feeling of instability, clicking, or the hip 'giving way'

Recurrent dislocation— the hip joint pops out of place

Swelling, warmth, or redness around the old incision (possible infection)

Leg shortening or a new limp that was not present before

Pain that returns after years of good function from the original replacement

Dr. Ali H. Sobh, MD

Board Certified & Fellowship-Trained Orthopedic Surgeon

Rush University Medical Center Fellowship

Hour Detroit Top Doc Award 2025

900+ 5-Star Google Reviews

Why Dr. Sobh for This Procedure

Fellowship-Trained Expertise in Revision Hip Replacement

is one of the most demanding procedures in orthopedics. Dr. Sobh's fellowship at Rush University specifically included complex revision training—removing failed implants, restoring lost bone with grafts, and rebuilding hip stability with specialized modular revision components. He is widely recognized for correcting problems from hip replacements performed elsewhere, and has earned the trust of referring physicians across metro Detroit for his expertise in managing infected, loose, and unstable hip replacements.

Meet Dr. Sobh Patient Testimonials

Conditions Treated

Is Revision Hip Replacement Right for You?

Dr. Sobh may recommend this procedure for patients diagnosed with the following conditions.

Aseptic loosening of hip implantHip implant wear or osteolysisRecurrent hip dislocation or instabilityPeriprosthetic hip fractureInfected hip replacement (PJI)Painful hip replacement from any cause

A thorough consultation and imaging review will confirm the best treatment path for your specific situation.

Are You a Candidate?

Candidacy for Revision Hip Replacement

Dr. Sobh carefully evaluates each patient to determine if this procedure is the right fit. Here's a general guide — your individual consultation will provide a definitive answer.

Good Candidate

Patients with a painful hip replacement from aseptic loosening, wear, osteolysis, recurrent dislocation, or periprosthetic fracture. Diagnostic workup includes X-rays, CT scan, blood tests, and often joint aspiration.

Good Candidate

Patients with an infected hip replacement (PJI) requiring a two-stage revision protocol, working in coordination with infectious disease specialists.

May Not Be a Candidate

Patients with a well-functioning, painless hip replacement do not need revision. 'Preventive' revision is not recommended—the risks of surgery outweigh any benefit.

May Not Be a Candidate

Patients with severe medical comorbidities that cannot be optimized may not be safe candidates for revision surgery, which is longer and more physiologically demanding than primary replacement.

Technology & Techniques

Advanced Technology Used in Your Surgery

Dr. Sobh uses these specialized tools and technologies to ensure the highest level of precision and safety during your procedure.

Modular Revision Stems

Specialized femoral stems with modular bodies and heads that can be assembled to address varying degrees of bone loss and leg length discrepancy.

Acetabular Revision Cups & Cages

When the hip socket has significant bone loss, Dr. Sobh uses revision cups with augmenting screws, jumbo cups, or reinforcing cages (anti-protrusio cages) to rebuild the socket.

Bone Grafting (Morselized & Structural)

Donor bone is used to rebuild lost bone stock—either as small fragments packed into defects (morselized) or as larger structural grafts for major defects.

Antibiotic-Loaded Spacers

For infected hips, an antibiotic-loaded cement spacer is placed temporarily to maintain hip space and deliver high-dose local antibiotics while the infection clears.

How the Surgery Works

Understanding Your Surgical Journey

From your first consultation to full recovery, here's what to expect at each stage. Dr. Sobh and the team at Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons will guide you through every step.

Custom Surgical Planning

Because every revision is unique, Dr. Sobh plans a personalized reconstructive strategy. This may include specialized modular revision implants, bone grafts, or reinforcing rings to rebuild lost bone stock.

Implant Removal & Reconstruction

The old is carefully removed. Damaged bone is restored with grafts or augments. New revision components are implanted to rebuild hip stability and leg length.

Infection Management

If infection is present, a staged approach may be used: first removing the and placing an antibiotic spacer, then re-implanting a new hip after the infection is cleared.

Structured Rehabilitation

Recovery from revision surgery is more gradual than primary replacement. A tailored program protects the reconstruction while restoring strength and mobility.

Recovery Timeline

Your Path Back to Activity

Recovery timelines vary by individual and procedure complexity. Dr. Sobh will provide a personalized rehabilitation plan. Here's a general guide to what most patients experience.

1-3 days

Hospital Stay

Longer than primary surgery due to complexity. Begin protected walking with a walker. Pain managed with multimodal protocol.

2-6 weeks

Early Recovery

Continue protected weight bearing as directed. Physical therapy focuses on safe mobility and hip stability.

6-12 weeks

Strengthening Phase

Gradually increase activity. Therapy advances based on the extent of reconstruction. Most patients transition off walking aids.

3-6 months

Full Recovery

Return to daily activities. Complete bone and soft tissue healing. Ongoing monitoring ensures implant stability.

Comparing Your Options

Revision Hip Replacement vs. Alternatives

Understanding how revision hip replacement compares to other treatment options helps you make an informed decision. Dr. Sobh will discuss all viable options during your consultation.

Primary Hip Replacement

Primary replacement places implants into native bone for the first time. Revision removes the old , rebuilds lost bone, and places specialized components—a much longer and more complex operation.

Girdlestone (Resection Arthroplasty)

In severe infections where re-implantation is not possible, the hip is removed and not replaced, leaving a shortened, unstable leg. This is a last-resort option when revision is not feasible.

Chronic Suppression (Antibiotics Only)

For patients too frail for revision surgery, long-term oral antibiotics may suppress a low-grade infection. This does not cure the infection and is not appropriate for active patients.

Patient Journey Tip

Revision hip recovery is longer than primary hip replacement—expect 3-6 months rather than 6-12 weeks. Your weight-bearing status may be restricted initially depending on the extent of bone reconstruction. Dr. Sobh will give you a personalized recovery plan.

Benefits

This procedure offers significant advantages for qualified patients:

Relieves pain from a failed hip replacement
Restores hip stability and eliminates dislocation
Rebuilds lost bone with grafts and augments
Corrects leg length discrepancy
Improves walking ability and quality of life
Addresses infection with specialized protocols

Potential Risks

As with any surgery, there are potential risks. Dr. Sobh takes extensive measures to minimize them:

Higher complication rate than primary replacement
Bone loss requiring grafting
Infection (higher risk in revision)
Dislocation or instability
Nerve or blood vessel injury
Need for future revision
Anesthesia-related risks

Important

This information is for educational purposes only. Your individual risks depend on your health history. Dr. Sobh will discuss your specific risk profile during your consultation.

Patient Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions patients ask about revision hip replacement.

Why do hip replacements need revision?

Hip implants can fail due to wear over decades, from bone loss (osteolysis), recurrent , infection, or fracture. Dr. Sobh will identify the specific cause and plan the appropriate reconstruction.

Is revision hip surgery more complicated than the original surgery?

Yes. Revision requires removing the old , addressing bone loss, and rebuilding the joint with specialized components. Dr. Sobh's fellowship training at Rush University specifically included complex revision .

How long is recovery from revision hip surgery?

Recovery is longer than primary hip replacement—typically 3-6 months—because the reconstruction is more complex. Dr. Sobh will give you a personalized recovery plan based on the extent of your surgery.

What if my hip replacement is infected?

Infected hip replacements are treated with a two-stage protocol: first removing the and placing an antibiotic spacer, then after the infection is cleared, implanting a new hip. Dr. Sobh works with infectious disease specialists for optimal outcomes.

Medically ReviewedLast reviewed: August 14, 2026

Dr. Ali H. Sobh, MD

Board Certified & Fellowship-Trained Orthopedic Surgeon — Minimally-Invasive Hip & Knee Replacement Specialist

This procedure page was clinically reviewed and approved by Dr. Ali H. Sobh, MD, a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in direct anterior hip replacement and MAKO robotic knee surgery. Dr. Sobh graduated with high honors from Wayne State University School of Medicine and completed his adult reconstruction fellowship at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. He practices at Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons (MOS) with offices in Royal Oak and Southfield, Michigan.

View Full Credentials Editorial Standards

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Individual results and recovery timelines vary. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Sobh to discuss your specific condition and treatment options.

Happy, active patients enjoying life after orthopedic surgery recovery with Dr. Ali H. Sobh

Back to an Active Life

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Sobh to discuss whether revision hip replacement is right for you. Our team will help coordinate your visit, insurance verification, and pre-operative planning.

Book an Appointment Call (833) 667-3627