Each year, approximately 790,000 total knee replacement surgeries and 544,000 hip replacement surgeries are performed in the U.S. – more than 1.3 million joint replacements annually. Studies show that those numbers are expected to increase, especially among younger Americans.
On average, a replacement functions well for 15 to 20 years – and often longer with proper care. Still, as people live longer and remain active, it’s normal to wonder whether a joint replacement might eventually need to be revised or replaced.
Joint replacements are highly durable, but they aren’t designed to last forever.
Over time, a variety of factors can contribute to wear or failure, such as activity level, infection, injury, loosening of the implant, bone loss, or obesity.
“It can be hard to know if your joint replacement is failing, and it may be time for a revision total joint arthroplasty. The most common signs that should prompt you to call your orthopedic surgeon are new pain in your joint replacement, increased pain, swelling, or pain in the first few steps you take that improves with activity. These symptoms could indicate loosening of the total joint and need to be evaluated by your surgeon. Other obvious symptoms that should be reported to your surgeon would be redness around the incision, drainage from the incision, increasing swelling, or fevers or chills. Revision hip or knee replacements are big surgeries. Fortunately, we have the only robot FDA-approved for revision total joint arthroplasty. We are able to perform these revision surgeries with the help of the robot, making us much more precise with alignment and stability in the revision total joint, allowing us to preserve bone and get you back on the road to recovery sooner.”
James Aitken, DO
Orthopedic Surgeon, Trinity Orthopaedics
Younger, more active joint replacement patients may be more likely to require revision over time, particularly if they return to strenuous physical activity. High-impact exercises – such as running, jumping, or sports like basketball or tennis – can increase stress on the implant and accelerate wear, compared with lower-impact activities performed within recommended guidelines.
Primary knee and hip replacement surgeries are highly successful, and revision procedures are relatively uncommon. But when all other treatment options are exhausted, an implant replacement or revision surgery may be recommended to relieve persistent orthopedic pain.
No matter the complexity of your condition, the orthopedic team at Catholic Health is here to help. Our specialists provide research-driven care focused on restoring mobility, achieving your goals and improving quality of life. With locations across Western New York and coordinated support at every step, we make it easier to access the care you need – close to home.
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