admins What is Hip Replacement Surgery?
Hip replacement surgery, also known as hip arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure to replace the damaged or diseased hip joint with artificial implants. The hip is a ball-and-socket joint. The ball, also called the femoral head, is located at the top of the femur (or thigh bone). The ball rotates within a hollow socket called the acetabulum.
Hip replacement surgery involves replacing the parts of the hip joint that are damaged and causing problems with artificial implants made of plastic, metal, or ceramic.
The surgical procedure aims to restore hip function, relieve pain, and improve mobility in individuals with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteonecrosis, and other hip-related conditions and injuries.
The procedure is typically recommended for individuals with severe hip joint pain that limits their daily activities and quality of life. Hip replacement surgery is usually suggested when other contemporary measures, like medication and therapy, are ineffective.
Types of Hip Replacement Surgeries
There are two main types of hip replacement surgeries:
Total Hip Replacement
Total hip replacement involves replacing the entire hip joint with an artificial joint. It is the most common type of hip replacement surgery. The artificial joint used in the surgery includes a ball, a socket, and a metal stem.
The stem is inserted into the femur bone, and the ball is attached to the top of the stem. The socket is replaced with a cup-shaped component inserted into the pelvic bone. The procedure is typically performed on patients with severe hip joint damage.
Partial Hip Replacement
In a partial hip replacement, only the femoral head (the ball) is replaced with an artificial implant, not the socket. This procedure is usually recommended for patients with hip damage or arthritis that affect a portion of the joint.
Why is Hip replacement surgery needed?
Hip replacement surgery is typically recommended for patients with severe hip pain or hip joint damage that affects their quality of life. The most common reasons for hip replacement surgery include
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Post-traumatic arthritis
- Osteonecrosis
- Fractures and injuries from disease or trauma
- Congenital hip dysplasia
The Surgical Process of Hip Replacement
Following are the steps involved in the surgical procedure of hip replacement:
Preparation before surgery
Before undergoing hip replacement surgery, an orthopedic surgeon will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if the patient is a good candidate for the surgery. This may include blood tests, X-Rays, EKG, urine analysis, and physical examination. The surgeon will also assess the patient’s risk factors and may suggest discontinuing certain medications like blood thinners, corticosteroids, antidepressants, and aspirin-based medications at least two weeks before the surgery.
Anesthesia
During the surgery, anesthesia will be administered to ensure they are comfortable and pain-free during the surgery. Surgeons will either give general anesthesia or regional anesthesia.
Incision
The surgeon will make an incision in the hip to access the joint. The location of the incision will depend on the approach used by the surgeon.
- Anterior: The surgeon will make an incision at the front of the hip to access the hip joint.
- Lateral: Incision is made on the side of the hip to access the joint.
- Posterior: The surgeon accesses the hip joint from the back by making an incision on the back of the leg close to the buttocks.
The surgery is usually done using minimally invasive techniques to minimize the impact of the surgery and for faster and easier recovery.
Removal of damaged tissues
The surgeon will remove the damaged or diseased bone tissue from the hip joint. This may include removing the damaged ball or femoral head and damaged cartilage from the socket.
Preparation of the bone
The remaining hip bone is prepared for implantation of the artificial joint. The bone may be drilled or shaped to fit the implants.
Insertion of artificial joint
The artificial implants are now inserted into the joint space through one of the incisions. The cup is inserted into the pelvic bone, and the ball is attached to the top of the stem.
Hip Replacement Surgery: Recovery Time
Patients will be able to walk with assistance on the same day or the next day after the surgery. However, the complete recovery time may vary depending on various factors, including the patient’s overall health, the type of surgery performed, and how well the patient follows post-surgery precautions.
While the recovery time after hip replacement surgery varies, most patients may be able to return to routine activities within 3-6 weeks of surgery.
Risks and Complications
Hip replacement surgery is generally considered a safe and effective procedure. However, just like any surgery, there may be a risk of potential complications. Some general risks and complications may include
- blood clots
- infection
- dislocation
- fracture
- nerve damage
- implant failure
- change in leg length
How to minimize risks and complications
There are several ways to minimize the risks and complications associated with hip replacement surgery, including
- Following the doctor’s pre-surgery instructions, such as avoiding alcohol and tobacco, stopping certain medications, and not eating or drinking a few hours before the surgery
- Managing chronic health conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease as these health conditions can increase the risk of complications during surgery
- Following post-operative care as suggested by the doctors.
- Sitting up and walking with assistance after surgery to prevent the formation of blood clots
- Attending physical therapy and rehabilitation sessions to strengthen the new joint and reduce the risk of complication
Hip replacement surgery can be a life-changing procedure for those suffering from chronic hip pain and issues with mobility. It is a major surgery that requires thorough preparation, but the benefits of the surgery can be life-changing, including reduced hip pain, increased mobility, and overall quality of life. By understanding the procedure, the recovery time, and the risks associated with the surgery, individuals can be better prepared for the surgery and embark on the journey toward a pain-free future.
If you are struggling with debilitating hip joint pain impacting your daily life, consider speaking to our orthopedic specialists at Patiala Heart Institute to learn more about hip replacement surgery. Our team of expert orthopedic surgeons can help you understand the procedure, address your concerns, and guide you through the process.
Don’t let hip joint pain hold you back any longer. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a healthier future.
Can you live a normal life after hip replacement?
Yes, most patients are able to live a normal and active life after hip replacement surgery. However, it is important to follow the post-operative care instructions and maintain a healthy lifestyle to extend the lifespan of the hip joint.
Can you climb stairs after hip replacement?
Yes, patients will be able to climb stairs for hip replacement surgery. However, you must avoid activities that involve bending, twisting, or pivoting hips over 60-90 degrees during the first 6-8 weeks after surgery. Regaining strength in the affected hip may take some time and practice. You can climb up the stairs normally as the muscles and ligaments strengthen.
