How do we know if my husband's 6yr old hip replacements need a revision?

Pain: In general, hip replacements last 20 years or more 90% of the time. A revision is most often performed because the patient starts having pain in the replaced joint. The pain can be caused by an infection or by loosening of the joint replacement. Both of these conditions would require a revision surgery.

Get xrays: It would unusual for hip replacements that are only 6 years old to require revisions. Pain around the hip, especially in the groin area, can indicate a concern about the hip replacement. Xrays and an evaluation with an orthopaedic surgeon is recommended as a routine to check on the replacements.