What is it and how is it performed?
Total hip arthroplasty is a procedure to treat osteoarthritis of the hip. It is performed once nonoperative treatments have been exhausted. An incision is made over the side of the thigh and the damaged surfaces of the hip are removed. The cartilage in the acetabulum (socket) is shaved away, and the femoral head is removed. A metal cup is inserted in the acetabulum with a plastic liner and a metal stem is inserted into the femur. A ceramic head is placed onto the femoral stem.
How long does it take to recover?
You can return to your daily activities within several weeks. Patients may return to work after 6 weeks. It takes about three months to heal completely.
What limitations will I have because of the hip replacement?
For the first six weeks after your surgery, your surgeon may recommend avoiding certain hip movements.
The main benefit to a hip replacement is the treatment of pain. Generally, patients can easily tolerate low to moderate impact activities, such as golf, cycling, and dancing.
How long does the surgery last?
About 2 hours.
What are the benefits compared to a total hip arthroplasty?
It is more convenient for people since they only need to undergo surgery once, and people are off work for a shorter period of time.
Rehabilitation is faster since physical therapy appointments will focus on both hips at once, rather than having tow separate courses of treatment.
How long does it take to recover?
You can return to your daily activities within several weeks. You may return to work after about one month.
Am I a candidate?
Candidates for bilateral knee arthroplasty are active, have good strength in their legs, and have few or no associated medical conditions.
Hip arthroplasty technology and techniques have drastically improved over the years, and older implants are subject to loosening of components and wearing of the plastic liner. Other complications include infection and instability. There are many options currently available to treat these complications and your surgeon will discuss the best treatment tailored for your needs.
The implants used currently demonstrate excellent longevity and function.
As we age, our bones become less dense and are at risk of breaking from a fall or other minor trauma. The term for this decreased bone density is osteoporosis. Increased age, decreased physical activity, smoking and genetics affect the risk of developing this disease.
Hip fractures typically refer to breaks in the upper portion of the femur (thigh bone).
Treatment options for hip fractures include:
Partial hip replacement
Screw fixation with or without a plate
Nail and screw fixation
Your surgeon will discuss with you whether you would benefit from a partial hip replacement versus a fixation.
If the hip fracture involves a hip replacement, the treatment is generally more complex. Your surgeon will discuss the best treatment for you on an individual basis.
Your questions and concerns have most likely been asked and answered in our support group. We provide you with reliable patient education and resources to help you throughout this life-changing process.