Hip replacement surgery

Hip replacement surgery is a procedure in which a doctor surgically removes a painful hip joint with arthritis and replaces it with an artificial joint often made from metal and plastic components. It usually is done when all other treatment options have failed to provide adequate pain relief. The procedure should relieve a painful hip joint, making walking easier.

Indications

Hip replacement surgery can be performed traditionally or by using what is considered a minimally-invasive technique. The main difference between the two procedures is the size of the incision. The artificial joints used in hip replacement surgery come in many designs and sizes to fit all patients.

Procedure

During hip replacement, the surgeon removes the damaged sections of your hip joint and replaces them with parts usually constructed of metal, ceramic and very hard plastic. This artificial joint (prosthesis) helps reduce pain and improve function.

Risks

As with any surgery, hip replacement surgery has risks. These include infection, blood clots, and nerve injury. There may also be risks from the anesthesia.

Hip replacement X - Ray

The goals of hip replacement surgery include increasing mobility, improving joint function, and alleviating pain.

Types of Hip Replacement Surgery

There are two primary types of hip replacement surgery:

Traditional surgery: This procedure involves making a 6- to 8-inch incision over the side of the hip, removing diseased bone tissue and cartilage, and replacing them with new artificial parts.

Minimally invasive surgery: This approach uses smaller incisions and is associated with shorter recovery times. Candidates for this surgery are typically younger individuals of normal weight and good overall health.

The artificial components used in hip replacements come in two varieties: cemented and uncemented.

• Cemented replacements attach artificial parts to healthy bone using special glue or cement and are often used for older or less active individuals.
• Uncemented replacements utilize artificial parts with porous surfaces that allow bone to grow into them, providing stability. These are commonly used for younger, more active individuals.

Why Is Hip Replacement Surgery Needed?

Hip replacement surgery is recommended for individuals experiencing pain and functional impairment due to conditions such as arthritis, bone diseases, injuries, or tumors affecting the hip joint. If conservative treatments fail to alleviate symptoms, surgery may be necessary.

Preparing for Hip Replacement Surgery

Preparation for hip replacement surgery involves learning about the procedure, arranging transportation, and ensuring support for recovery at home. It's essential to follow the doctor's instructions and make necessary arrangements for post-operative care.

What To Expect During Hip Replacement Surgery

During hip replacement surgery, the diseased parts of the hip joint are removed, and artificial components are implanted to restore function. Patients receive anesthesia, and the procedure typically lasts one to two hours.

What To Expect After Hip Replacement Surgery

Following hip replacement surgery, patients undergo a period of recovery, during which they receive pain management, physical therapy, and instructions for post-operative care. Full recovery may take three to six months, depending on individual factors and the type of surgery performed.

Possible Complications of Hip Replacement Surgery

While modern techniques have reduced risks, complications such as hip dislocation, infection, blood clots, and bone growth abnormalities can occur. Patients should promptly report any unusual symptoms to their doctor.

Recovery

After surgery, physical therapy is necessary to help restore strength and mobility. Most people can expect to return to normal activities within one to six months.

Life After Hip Replacement Surgery

For many individuals, hip replacement surgery results in reduced pain, improved mobility, and a better quality of life. While high-impact activities should be avoided, patients can engage in exercises like walking, cycling, swimming, and skiing to improve muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness without compromising the new hip.

See also

• Knee replacement
• Arthritis
• Joint pain

References

Orthopedics summary

Orthopedics aims at the treatment of health problems of the musculoskeletal system. This includes your bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles.

Neck
Common problems: Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, herniated disk, injury.

Shoulder
Common problems: Dislocation, separation, rotator cuff injuries, frozen shoulder, fracture (break), arthritis, sprains and strains, bursitis.

Spine
Common problems: Back pain from injuries, herniated disks, spinal stenosis.

Elbow
Common problems: Bursitis, tendinitis (including "tennis elbow"), overuse, traumatic or repetitive injuries.

Wrist
Common problems: Arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis), bursitis, osteoporosis, fracture, tendinitis, sprains, carpal tunnel syndrome.

Knee
Common problems: Osteoarthritis, sprains and strains, rheumatoid arthritis, sports injuries (ligaments and tendons), bursitis.

Hip
Common problems: Osteoporosis, fracture, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, bursitis.

Ankle
Common problems: Sprains, strains, bursitis, tendonitis (Achilles tendinitis).

Foot

Common problems: Arthritis, tendinitis, gout, toe fractures, bursitis (big toe).

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