Total hip replacement
Understanding Total Hip Replacement: What You Need to Know
Total hip replacement surgery offers significant relief for patients suffering from chronic hip pain, especially due to conditions like arthritis. A total hip replacement is a major operation that can offer patients a new lease of life.If you're considering hip replacement surgery, here’s everything you need to know.
What is a Total Hip Replacement?
A total hip replacement is an operation to replace the worn hip joint. The joint has 2 parts; the hip socket (Acetabulum) and the ball/head of the thigh bone (femur). During the operation, these two parts of your hip joint are removed and replaced with smooth artificial surfaces.
A total hip replacement operation is usually carried out for arthritic conditions and has proved to be a very successful procedure with 95% of patients gaining complete pain relief, an increased range of movement and increased activity and independence. Approximately 90% of hip replacements will still be okay at 20 years and many will last much longer.
This procedure is typically recommended for patients with severe osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or a traumatic injury.
What Are the Goals of Total Hip Replacement Surgery?
The primary goal of total hip replacement is to relieve pain and improve mobility. For most patients, the procedure effectively eliminates arthritis pain, enabling them to return to daily activities. Hip replacement surgery aims to restore your quality of life by improving pain and mobility. For most people, it will get rid of all of their arthritic pain and allow them to return to most activities. .
What Happens During the Procedure?
During a total hip replacement, the surgeon removes the damaged cartilage and bone surfaces from the hip joint and replaces them with a combination of metal, ceramic, and plastic components. The femoral head (top of the thigh bone) is replaced, and the acetabulum is prepared to fit with a new socket. This procedure helps restore the natural movement of a healthy hip joint.
What Patients Are Considered for Total Hip Replacement?
Patients who are considered for total hip replacement generally experience hip pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility that do not respond to conservative treatments like medications, physical therapy, or lifestyle changes. If hip pain severely affects the ability to perform everyday tasks such as walking, sitting, or standing, hip replacement may be the best option.
How Long Does the Surgery Take?
The surgery typically lasts between one to two hours, followed by a hospital stay of 2-3 days. Postoperative care includes pain management, physical therapy, and a gradual return to normal activities. Most patients can resume daily activities within 6 weeks, although complete recovery and optimal hip function may take up to a year.
How Long Does It Take to Recover from Hip Replacement Surgery?
Recovery from hip replacement surgery is a gradual process. Hospital stays generally last 24 to 72 hours, and we aim to get patients up and walking within hours of the procedure. Many patients can go home the day after surgery, or sometimes the same day, if recovery is progressing well. Crutches or a walker are typically used for the first few weeks, and most patients stop using them around the house within a week or two, though they may continue using them outdoors for a bit longer.
We aim to get people up and walking within a few hours of the operation and around 2/3 patients will go home the next day (you can go home the same day if you are doing well). Initially, you will be given crutches to help you walk, mainly for confidence and support. Most people will stop using these around the house within a week or two but you are likely to want them when walking outside for a few weeks. By six weeks most people will be walking well, without crutches, back driving and mostly pain-free.
However, it is common for the hip to still feel a bit stiff when you first get moving and do not yet have full movement. It can also still be a bit uncomfortable to lay on the operated side due to the scar. You will continue to improve rapidly for the first three months and most people will have achieved their maximal recovery between six and 12 months
What Are the Risks of Total Hip Replacement Surgery?
Like any surgery, total hip replacement carries some risks. The risks specific to hip replacement surgery include:
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Infection: While rare, infection around the replaced hip can occur, sometimes requiring further surgery.
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Dislocation: The artificial hip joint may become dislocated, especially in the early months after surgery.
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Blood Clots: Blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis, are a potential risk. Blood thinners and early mobilization help minimize this risk.
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Nerve or Blood Vessel Injury: Though rare, damage to surrounding nerves or blood vessels can occur.
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Leg Length Discrepancy: In some cases, patients may notice that one leg is slightly longer or shorter than the other after surgery.
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Ongoing Discomfort: While most patients experience long-term pain relief, some may notice occasional discomfort or stiffness in the hip.
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Long-Term Outlook
For patients with severe hip arthritis, a total hip replacement can dramatically improve quality of life by reducing pain, increasing mobility, and allowing for a return to normal activities. Most patients experience excellent function and pain relief for many years. With proper care and rehabilitation, approximately 90% of hip replacements continue to function well for up to 20 years.
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Conclusion
While hip replacement surgery is a major decision, the benefits often far outweigh the risks for individuals suffering from severe hip pain and limited mobility. If you're considering this surgery, it’s important to consult with an orthopedic surgeon to determine if total hip replacement is the right option for you based on your specific condition.
For more information or to discuss whether a total hip replacement might be right for you, please contact our clinic to schedule a consultation.