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Hip And Knee Revision Surgery

OrthoTeam Clinic

Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeons & Sports Medicine located in Madison, WI & Stoughton, WI

Understanding Your Joint Replacement

You had a hip or knee replacement to relieve pain and restore function. Most patients enjoy excellent long-term results. However, artificial joints can sometimes develop problems after surgery or years later, just like any mechanical part. Dr. Joseph Henningsen specializes in hip and knee revision surgery and will work with you to develop a plan to restore your joint function and get you back to doing what you love.

What is Revision Surgery?

Revision surgery is a procedure to correct or replace part or all of a previous hip or knee replacement (also called a “prosthesis” or “implant”). It is more complex than the original surgery and requires specialized expertise.

Common reasons for revision include:

  • Loosening of the implant from the bone
  • Wear or damage to the artificial joint surfaces
  • Infection
  • Instability (the joint feels loose or gives way)
  • Fracture around the implant
  • Persistent or returning pain with limited function
  • Stiffness or reduced range of motion

When Should You Seek Help?

Contact the OrthoTeam Clinic if you experience any of the following after your hip or knee replacement:

  • New or worsening pain that does not improve with rest, medication, or physical therapy
  • Feeling that the joint "never felt right"
  • Swelling, warmth, or redness around the joint
  • Instability or the feeling that the joint may “give out”
  • Difficulty walking or bearing weight
  • Fever, chills, or drainage from the incision (possible signs of infection)
  • Grinding, clicking, or unusual noises from the joint

Important: Pain after joint replacement is not something you have to “live with.” Early evaluation often leads to better outcomes.

How OrthoTeam Clinic Can Help You

As a specialist in hip and knee revision surgery, Dr. Henningsen offers comprehensive care for patients with painful or failing joint replacements.

Our approach includes:

  • Thorough evaluation with history, physical examination, and specialized imaging (X-rays, CT, MRI, or bone scans as needed)
  • Laboratory tests to check for infection or other causes
  • Accurate diagnosis of the underlying problem
  • Personalized treatment plan – this may involve non-surgical options (medications, injections, physical therapy) or, when necessary, revision surgery
  • Use of advanced techniques and implants designed specifically for revision cases
  • Close follow-up and rehabilitation support

Many patients who undergo revision surgery experience significant pain relief and improved function. While revision is more involved than primary surgery, careful planning and modern techniques allow most patients to return to enjoyable activities.

Next Steps

If you are having pain or problems with your hip or knee replacement, please call the OrthoTeam Clinic to schedule an evaluation. Bring any records, imaging, or operative reports from your original surgery.

We are here to listen, diagnose the cause of your symptoms, and develop the best plan to help you regain comfort and mobility.