Revision hip replacement
Most hip replacements last many years, but some wear out, loosen or cause problems. Revision surgery replaces some or all of the original implant. I trained in revision hip and knee surgery during fellowships in Montreal and at King's College Hospital, London.
Why a hip replacement may need revising
- Loosening of the implant from the bone
- Wear of the bearing surfaces
- Repeated dislocation
- Infection
- A fracture of the bone around the implant
- Pain with a cause that can be corrected
Finding the cause
Finding the cause matters more than anything else. I will review your history, examine you and arrange X-rays and blood tests, often with a CT scan. If infection is possible, I may take a sample of fluid from the joint. I may also ask for records of your original operation, wherever it was done.
The operation
Revision surgery is more complex than a first hip replacement and usually takes longer. Depending on the problem, I may replace only the worn parts or the whole implant, sometimes using bone graft or specialised implants. An infected hip replacement is sometimes treated in two operations several weeks apart.
Recovery and risks
Recovery is usually slower than after a first hip replacement, and you may need to limit the weight you put on the leg for a time. The risks are similar to those of a first hip replacement but higher, particularly infection, dislocation and the need for further surgery. Results are generally good but less predictable, and I will give you a realistic picture for your own situation.
Where I carry out revision surgery
Revision surgery is a bigger operation, and patients may need high-dependency care afterwards. For this reason, I prefer to carry out most revision operations at the Essex and Suffolk Elective Orthopaedic Centre (ESEOC) at Colchester Hospital, which offers a private patient service for both insured and self-paying patients. Some less complicated revision operations are done at Nuffield Health Ipswich. We will discuss which hospital is best for you at your first consultation at Nuffield Health Ipswich.
Costs and insurance
I am recognised by Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, Vitality, Aetna and Healix. Please check that your policy covers your treatment and the hospital where it will take place, and ask your insurer for a pre-authorisation number before your first appointment. If you are paying for yourself, you will be given a quote for your surgery once we have agreed your treatment plan and where it will take place. See fees and insurance.
Written and reviewed by Mr Krishna Boddu FRCS (Tr & Orth), consultant orthopaedic surgeon, GMC 5206961. Last reviewed: 1 November 2026.
Sources
Book a consultation
I see patients at Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital. You can book online, or contact my secretary, Daniela Capaldo, who can also help with insurance and self-pay questions.