Revision surgeries are rarely needed after joint replacement. These are done in patients that develop infection, sustain a fracture around the implant, or require a worn-out part to be changed.

Some revision surgeries may be straightforward procedures like changing a worn-out component while others may be complex procedures involving fractures of the bone around the implant.

Infections

Infections of the artificial joint can range from simple to complex. A simple wash and debridement may suffice for some whereas others may need multiple surgical interventions to control the infection. Revision surgeries are highly individualized as each case presents unique challenges. ​ Infections may be treated by a single-stage or two-stage surgery. For early infections, with susceptible bacteria a single-stage revision is an option.

Most infections though are treated by a two-stage revision surgery. In the first stage, the implants are removed along with infective tissues and an antibiotic-loaded spacer is placed to create a temporary joint. Antibiotics are then given for a period of 6-12 weeks. Once it is confirmed that the infection has been resolved, the second-stage surgery is performed. In this the antibiotic-spacer is removed and final revision implants are fixed to recreate the artificial joint.