Preoperative Planning for Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty

Perioperative complications and unexpected surgical findings are much more common in revision total hip arthroplasty than they are in primary total hip arthroplasty. There are often problems during surgery that require special instruments, implants, bone grafts, or other accessories that may not be available unless the potential need for these items was anticipated. Anticipation of possible complications also is crucial so that the patient can provide informed consent. Preoperatively, patients and their families should be counseled regarding the specific additional risks associated with revision total hip arthroplasty. Preoperative planning is the first and most important step in performing a revision total hip arthroplasty. An organized approach reduces operative time, minimizes risks, decreases stress, and increases the success rate.