Procedure Overview
What Is Complex Hip Arthroplasty?
- Complex hip arthroplasty is a type of hip replacement surgery performed when the hip joint has been damaged by:
- A serious injury (trauma) such as a fracture around the hip joint, around the socket (acetabular fracture) or around the thigh bone (hip fracture)
- Failed previous surgery for a hip fracture or other hip injury
- Complications such as non-union (failure of the bone to heal), implant failure, collapse of bone, or infection
- These operations are more complicated than routine hip replacements because of changes to the bone, soft tissues, or previous implants.
Why Are Specialist Centres and Surgeons Important?
- Complex hip arthroplasty after trauma is best performed in specialist centres by surgeons with experience in:
- Revision and complex hip replacement
- Trauma and post-traumatic reconstruction
- Managing bone loss and previous implants
- Specialist centres provide:
- Detailed pre-operative planning
- Access to specialist implants and equipment
- Multidisciplinary care (surgeons, anaesthetists, physiotherapists, geriatricians, and specialist nurses)
- Better management of complications
- Evidence shows that treatment in specialist centres leads to better outcomes and fewer complications for complex cases.
Key Messages
- Complex hip arthroplasty is sometimes needed after trauma or failed trauma surgery
- Surgery is more demanding than routine hip replacement
- Specialist centres and experienced surgeons improve outcomes
- Recovery takes time, but many patients experience significant benefit
Why You Might Need This
Why Might I Need This Surgery?
You may be offered complex hip arthroplasty if you have:- Persistent pain after a hip fracture
- Failure of metalwork (plates, screws, nails, or pins)
- Collapse or damage to the hip joint after trauma
- Difficulty walking or loss of independence
- Arthritis that has developed after a previous injury or surgery
Why Is This Surgery More Complex?
- Compared with standard hip replacement, this surgery may involve:
- Distorted or weakened bone
- Previous scars or implants that need to be removed
- Bone loss or poor bone quality
- Muscle or soft tissue damage from the original injury
- Higher risk of complications
- Because of this, careful planning and specialist expertise are essential.
Clinical Outcomes & Patient Safety
Key Benefits
What Are the Benefits of Surgery?
Potential benefits include:- Reduced or eliminated hip pain
- Improved ability to walk and move
- Increased independence
- Better overall quality of life
Risks & Considerations
What Are the Risks?
All surgery carries risks. With complex hip arthroplasty, these may include:- Infection
- Dislocation of the hip
- Fracture during or after surgery
- Blood clots
- Leg length difference
- Ongoing pain or stiffness
- Need for further surgery
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this surgery completely fix my hip?
The aim is to improve pain and function. While many patients do very well, outcomes depend on the severity of damage and overall health.
Will I be able to walk again?
Most patients regain the ability to walk, often with aids initially. Physiotherapy is a key part of recovery.
Is this riskier than a standard hip replacement?
Yes. Because of previous injury or surgery, risks are higher. This is why specialist care is important.
Will old metalwork be removed?
Often yes, but not always. This depends on its position and condition.
How long will the hip replacement last?
Modern implants are designed to last many years, but longevity varies depending on activity level, bone quality, and overall health.
When Should I Seek Medical Advice After Surgery?
Contact your healthcare team urgently if you experience:
- Increasing pain, redness, or swelling
- Wound leakage (fluid coming out of the wound) or fever
- Sudden difficulty walking
- New hip