What is Hip Replacement Surgery

Also known as Hip arthroplasty, this procedure involves replacing the damaged cartilage and tissues in the hip joint with prosthetic parts made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. The artificial joints are implanted to restore the mobility and flexibility of the hip joint.

Orthopedic surgeons will suggest undergoing hip replacement surgery when the hip pain becomes unbearable and interferes with daily activities and life. But before recommending a surgery, he will try to treat the joint with conservative techniques like medication and physical therapy.

Why is it Needed

Hip replacement surgery is done to correct several chronic conditions that inflict chronic pain, cause inflammation and discomfort, and affect the patient’s quality of life. Some of the common instances when you might need a hip arthroplasty include:

• Osteoarthritis – This type of arthritis directly affects the cartilage inside the bones, causing severe pain due to friction when the bones rub against each other. It can lead to decalcification of the bones and damage to the hip joint.
• Rheumatoid arthritis – This is an auto-immune disorder that causes inflammation and erosion of the cartilage in the hip joint and bones. In the long run, it can lead to deformities.
• Osteonecrosis – In this condition, the ball portion of the hip joint isn’t supplied with enough blood and oxygen. This leads to pre-mediated fractures or even dislocation of the bone, leading to severe damage.

How to Prepare for Hip Replacement

If you are experiencing persistent pain and discomfort around your hip joint, the first thing you need to do is consult an Orthopaedic.

During the initial consultation, the surgeon will assess your hip and advise you to get some image tests run. He will rely on the reports to assess the damage that has been inflicted. After that, the surgeon will inquire about your previous medical history and gather other necessary information to better understand things.

He will explain about the surgery, recovery process and risks involved, and suggest a surgery date.

You will be asked to stop smoking, consuming alcohol, taking supplements and blood-thinning medications before the surgery.

What Happens During a Hip Replacement Surgery

The hip replacement surgery takes a few hours and will require the patient to stay in the hospital for a couple of days after that.

During the surgery, the patient is administered spinal or local anesthesia. The surgeon then starts the procedure. Based on your age, lifestyle, and medical history the surgeon will tell you about the kind of implants you can choose from.

The first step is to make an incision from the front of the hip bone, cutting through the multiple layers of tissue. Once the surgeon has access to the hip bone, he will remove the damaged cartilage and tissues, leaving the healthy parts of the hip joint intact.

He then places the implants inside the pelvic bone to replace the damaged socket. The round ball on the top of the femur is replaced with a prosthetic ball to promote better movement.

Once the surgery is completed, you will be shifted into the recovery room for 1-2 hours until the anesthesia wears off. Your surgeon will then come and instruct you about the post-operative care and the things you need to be mindful of during the recovery period. Often, a physical therapist is assigned after the surgery to help you restore the hip’s natural movement.