Overview Of Hip Replacement
Hip replacement surgery also known as hip arthroplasty is a surgical procedure that is used to treat hip pain, arthritis, or hip fractures. In this, an orthopedic surgeon removes the damaged parts of a hip joint and replaces them with artificial joints (prostheses) made up of different materials. This artificial joint acts as an original joint in a patient which helps them in movement.
Types Of Hip Replacement Surgery
Hip replacement surgery is of various types. It includes –
- Total Hip Replacement Surgery – During a total hip replacement, both the ball and the socket of a hip joint are removed and replaced with an artificial joint known as a Prosthesis.
- Partial Hip Replacement Surgery – During a partial hip replacement, either the ball/ the head of the femur or the socket/ the pelvis part is generally replaced with an artificial joint.
- Revision Hip Replacement Surgery – This surgery is performed to replace the implants that are already present in the hip joint and are damaged due to wear and tear.
Benefits Of Hip Replacement Surgery:
- Permanent relief from pain
- Improve your quality of life
- High success rate
- Improves Mobility
Precautions to Take Post Surgery
- Install railings or safety bars in the shower
- Keep a chair in the shower
- Get a firm pillow or strong seat to sit on so that your hips remain higher than your knees.
- Avoid tough and weight-bearing exercises until your doctor suggests
- Avoid crossing your legs
- Prefer a lift rather than stairs
- Don’t sit on the floor until necessary
Hip replacement, also known as hip arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves replacing a damaged or worn-out hip joint with an artificial joint, called a prosthesis. The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint where the head of the femur (thigh bone) fits into the acetabulum (socket) of the pelvis.
Hip replacement surgery is typically recommended when conservative treatments, such as medication, physical therapy, or assistive devices, no longer provide adequate relief from hip pain and mobility issues caused by conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, avascular necrosis, or hip fractures.
During the procedure, the surgeon removes the damaged portions of the hip joint, including the femoral head and the damaged cartilage, and replaces them with artificial components made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. There are different types of hip prostheses available, including total hip replacement and partial hip replacement.
Total hip replacement involves replacing both the femoral head and the socket with artificial components. The prosthetic femoral head is attached to a stem, which is inserted into the hollow center of the femur. The prosthetic socket is implanted in the acetabulum. The components are typically fixed in place using cement or are designed to encourage bone growth for natural integration.
Partial hip replacement, also known as hemiarthroplasty, involves replacing only the femoral head while leaving the natural acetabulum intact. This procedure is often performed in cases of fractures or other damage limited to the femoral head.
Hip replacement surgery is usually conducted under general anesthesia, and the procedure can take a few hours. After the surgery, patients typically stay in the hospital for a few days to monitor their recovery and manage pain. Rehabilitation and physical therapy are crucial for regaining strength, flexibility, and mobility in the hip joint.
Hip replacement surgery has a high success rate and can significantly improve a person's quality of life by relieving pain, improving mobility, and restoring function. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications, including infection, blood clots, dislocation of the joint, and implant failure. It is important to discuss the potential benefits and risks with your healthcare provider to make an informed decision about whether hip replacement is the right option for you.