There are many reasons why someone who already has an artificial knee or hip joint might need to have another operation to replace the old joint with a new one. This procedure is known as "revision surgery."

Most joint replacements last between ten and 15 years. If you are facing revision surgery, it's likely that the first artificial joint has simply worn down or become loose, causing the joint to be unstable. Other reasons for revision surgery include an infection in the joint or a fracture.

Age is a factor. If you were 60 or older at the time of your first joint replacement operation, chances are that your new knee or hip will last the rest of your life. The younger you were when you had the surgery, the more likely it is that you will eventually need revision surgery.

To learn more about the special needs and concerns related to knee or hip revision surgery, please click on the sections below:

• Having knee replacement surgery again
• Having hip replacement surgery again

IMPORTANT: The information and advice on this website was developed for people having "primary" hip or knee replacement surgery. Even so, most of it also applies to people like you who are having revision surgery.

But there are some exceptions. These tips and warnings are highlighted by the use of a "revision surgery" symbol As you navigate the website, be sure to click on these symbols whenever you see them and read the special information for revision surgery patients.