Hip replacement surgery, also called hip arthroplasty, is a procedure to replace a damaged or diseased hip joint. During the surgery, the orthopaedic surgeon removes the affected joint and replaces it with an artificial one.
This surgery is commonly recommended for long-term hip pain relief. There are two primary types of hip replacement:
- Total hip replacement
- Partial hip replacement
The procedure typically lasts around 2-3 hours.
Anatomy of the Hip
The hip is the largest and most flexible joint in the body, allowing a wide range of motion in various directions. It is a ball-and-socket joint where the ball-shaped head of the thigh bone (femur) fits into the socket of the pelvis. Tendons, muscles, and ligaments support the hip joint, enabling smooth movement and stability.
Why is Hip Replacement Done?
Hip replacement surgery is recommended as a long-term solution to various orthopaedic conditions affecting the hip joint. Common reasons include:
- Osteoarthritis: A degenerative joint condition caused by wear and tear, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disease that inflames the hip joint, causing pain and swelling.
- Osteonecrosis: A condition where bone tissue dies due to inadequate blood supply, often affecting individuals aged 30-60, and sometimes linked to heavy alcohol consumption.
- Hip Fracture: Injuries from accidents or falls that may require hip replacement to restore function.
- Tumor in the Hip Joint: Chondrosarcoma, a type of cancer, may lead to the need for hip replacement.
- Developmental Hip Dysplasia: A congenital condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, which can be treated with surgery.
Who Can Have Hip Replacement Surgery?
Not everyone with hip conditions is eligible for hip replacement. The orthopedic team assesses overall health to determine suitability. You may be a candidate if:
- Chronic hip pain limits daily activities.
- Hip pain persists even during rest.
- Stiffness restricts movement.
- Medications, physical therapy, and aids haven’t provided relief.
Factors considered include groin pain, worsening pain with weight-bearing, persistent stiffness, and difficulty sleeping.
Preparing for Hip Replacement Surgery
If you’re a candidate, your healthcare team will guide you through the preparation process. This includes medical history, diagnostic tests (such as X-rays, CT scans, and bone density tests), and lifestyle recommendations, like weight management and quitting smoking. The team will also discuss expectations and address any anxiety, ensuring you receive proper support before the procedure.
What to Expect During Hip Replacement Surgery
Hip replacement can be performed either traditionally or minimally invasively:
- Traditional Hip Replacement: Involves a single large incision to access and replace the hip joint.
- Minimally Invasive Hip Replacement: Uses smaller incisions, with a camera inserted through one and surgical tools through the other. This technique offers benefits like a faster recovery, fewer complications, and shorter hospital stays.
Hip Prosthesis
The artificial hip joint, or prosthesis, typically consists of a ceramic ball and a metal cup, providing durable support for the new hip joint.
Recovery from Hip Replacement Surgery
Recovery begins immediately after surgery, with gentle movement encouraged. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in rehabilitation, helping you regain strength and mobility through guided exercises. Proper wound care, medication adherence, and a balanced diet will support recovery.
Benefits of Hip Replacement Surgery
Patients can experience long-term relief and improvements, including:
- Increased mobility
- Pain and swelling relief
- Strengthened muscles
- Better coordination
- Improved ability to perform daily tasks like climbing stairs
Risks and Complications
Though generally safe, hip replacement surgery carries potential risks such as:
- Blood clots
- Infection
- Prosthesis loosening
- Leg length discrepancy
- Blood vessel damage
- Muscle weakness
Key Takeaways
- Hip replacement is an advanced surgical option for treating hip pain, joint deformities, and injuries, often when other treatments have failed.
- The procedure can be performed using traditional or minimally invasive techniques, and typically takes around two hours.
- The damaged hip joint is replaced with an artificial implant made from ceramic, metal, and hard plastic.
