Joint replacement surgery is a highly successful procedure designed to restore mobility and alleviate pain. However, in some cases, a hip or knee replacement may not function as expected, leading to what is known as a failed joint replacement. If you are experiencing ongoing pain, instability, or difficulty moving after joint replacement surgery, Dr. Rhett Hallows, a leading expert in revision joint replacement, can help restore function and improve your quality of life.
What Causes a Joint Replacement To Fail?
A failed knee replacement or failed hip replacement can occur due to several factors, including:
- Implant Loosening – Over time, an artificial joint may loosen from the surrounding bone, causing pain and instability.
- Wear and Tear – Although modern implants are durable, they can wear down, reducing function and discomfort.
- Infection – A bacterial infection in the replaced joint can cause severe pain, swelling, and instability, often requiring the implant to be removed.
- Fractures Around the Implant – Falls or trauma can cause fractures near the prosthetic joint, affecting its stability.
- Soft Tissue Damage or Weakness – The surrounding muscles, tendons, and ligaments play a crucial role in joint stability, and damage to these structures can lead to joint instability.
- Implant Misalignment – Improper positioning of the artificial joint may cause pain, restricted movement, or uneven wear.
- Recurrent Dislocation (Hip Replacements) – A hip replacement that frequently dislocates may indicate alignment issues or soft tissue weakness.
Symptoms of a Failed Joint Replacement
Recognizing the signs of a failing joint replacement early is essential to prevent further complications. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent Pain – Pain that does not improve or worsen with movement.
- Joint Instability – A sensation of the knee or hip “giving out.”
- Swelling or Warmth – Indicators of infection or implant failure.
- Limited Range of Motion – Difficulty bending, straightening, or moving the joint.
- Noisy Joint – Clicking, grinding, or popping sounds from the implant.
- Leg Length Discrepancy (Hip Replacements) – A noticeable difference in leg length affecting balance and walking.
- Redness and Drainage (Infection) – Persistent redness, fever, or drainage near the surgical site.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, seeking an evaluation from Dr. Hallows is critical.
How Revision Joint Replacement Works
Dr. Hallows specializes in revision joint replacement, a complex procedure that involves removing and replacing a failed implant. The process may include:
- Comprehensive Evaluation – Advanced imaging and diagnostic tests to determine the cause of implant failure.
- Personalized Treatment Plan – A tailored surgical approach based on the patient’s unique condition.
- State-of-the-Art Techniques – Utilizing robotic-assisted technology, advanced implant materials, and soft tissue balancing to improve long-term success.
- Infection Management – If infection is present, a two-stage revision process may be necessary to remove bacteria before placing a new implant.
Advanced Diagnostics & Customized Treatment
Dr. Hallows employs cutting-edge diagnostic imaging, joint aspiration testing, and 3D surgical planning to identify the cause of joint failure. Whether the issue is implant loosening, misalignment, or infection, he develops a customized surgical plan to provide the best possible outcome.
If you suspect your hip or knee replacement is failing, do not wait. Dr. Rhett Hallows offers expert revision joint replacement surgery to restore mobility and comfort.
Request an Appointment today to take the next step toward pain relief and improved function.
