Hip replacement surgery has helped millions of people regain mobility and enjoy a better quality of life. While modern hip implants are designed to be durable, there are situations where a previous hip replacement may require additional treatment. When a hip replacement no longer functions as intended due to wear, loosening, instability, or other complications, hip revision surgery may be recommended. If you’re searching for a Hip Specialist in Greeley, Dr. Alex Nielsen at Nadora Healthcare may be able to help.
Dr. Alex Nielsen is a fellowship-trained Total Joint Reconstruction surgeon who specializes in advanced hip and knee procedures. His expertise in complex joint reconstruction allows him to evaluate patients with painful or failing hip replacements and develop individualized treatment plans designed to restore function, relieve pain, and improve long-term joint health.
What Is Hip Revision Surgery?
Hip revision surgery is a procedure performed to repair or replace part or all of a previous hip replacement. Unlike a primary hip replacement, revision surgery is often more complex because it involves addressing issues with an existing implant while preserving as much healthy bone and tissue as possible.
Several factors may lead to the need for hip revision surgery, including:
- Implant wear over time
- Loosening of the implant
- Recurrent hip dislocation
- Infection around the joint
- Periprosthetic fractures (fractures around the implant)
- Mechanical failure of the implant
- Persistent pain following hip replacement
Patients experiencing problems with a previous hip replacement may notice:
- Increasing hip pain
- Difficulty walking
- Hip instability
- Reduced range of motion
- Swelling around the joint
- A feeling that the hip is giving way
If you are experiencing these symptoms after a hip replacement, an evaluation by a Hip Specialist in Greeley can help determine whether revision surgery or another treatment option may be appropriate.
Why Choose Dr. Alex Nielsen?
Dr. Alex Nielsen is a fellowship-trained Total Joint Reconstruction surgeon at Nadora Healthcare with advanced training in both primary and revision joint replacement procedures. His patient-centered approach focuses on identifying the cause of implant failure and creating a personalized treatment plan that aligns with each patient’s needs, lifestyle, and recovery goals.
During your evaluation, Dr. Nielsen will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, perform a comprehensive physical examination, and evaluate imaging studies such as X-rays or CT scans. In some cases, additional laboratory testing or advanced imaging may be recommended to assess the condition of the implant and rule out infection or other complications.
Patients searching for a trusted Hip Specialist in Greeley appreciate Dr. Nielsen’s commitment to education and communication. He believes patients should fully understand their diagnosis, available treatment options, and expected outcomes before moving forward with surgery.
When Is Hip Revision Surgery Recommended?
Not every painful hip replacement requires revision surgery. Some patients improve with conservative treatment depending on the cause of their symptoms.
Depending on your condition, Dr. Nielsen may recommend:
- Activity modification
- Physical therapy
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Assistive devices
- Monitoring with periodic imaging
If the implant has loosened, worn out, become unstable, or is affected by another significant complication, revision surgery may offer the best opportunity to restore hip function and relieve pain.
During hip revision surgery, some or all of the original implant components may be replaced. The procedure is carefully planned based on the condition of the existing implant, the quality of the surrounding bone, and the specific reason for revision. Because every revision is unique, Dr. Nielsen tailors the surgical approach to each patient’s individual needs.
Following surgery, rehabilitation is an important part of recovery. Physical therapy helps improve strength, flexibility, balance, and walking ability while supporting a safe return to daily activities. Dr. Nielsen provides detailed guidance throughout the recovery process and monitors healing through regular follow-up visits.
When to See a Hip Specialist
Persistent pain after a hip replacement should never be ignored. If you notice increasing discomfort, instability, swelling, difficulty walking, or a decline in hip function, it is important to schedule an orthopedic evaluation. Early diagnosis may help identify problems before they become more severe and can provide more treatment options.
Dr. Alex Nielsen works closely with every patient to develop an individualized care plan focused on improving comfort, restoring mobility, and maximizing the longevity of the hip joint. Whether conservative treatment or revision surgery is appropriate, his goal is to help patients return to an active and fulfilling lifestyle.
If you are experiencing complications following a previous hip replacement, Dr. Alex Nielsen at Nadora Healthcare may be able to help. As a fellowship-trained Total Joint Reconstruction surgeon, he provides comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans for patients requiring hip revision surgery and other complex joint procedures. If you’re searching for a Hip Specialist in Greeley, Dr. Nielsen and the team at Nadora Healthcare are committed to delivering expert orthopedic care focused on helping you move with greater comfort and confidence.
