If you’re persistently battling hip pain due to conditions such as arthritis, performing routine daily activities like walking or climbing stairs can become increasingly strenuous. When discomfort escalates to such severity, it might be time to explore “what is hip replacement” surgery. As a state-of-the-art surgical procedure, also known as total hip arthroplasty, hip replacement has high success and patient satisfaction rates. A remarkable near 100 percent of hip replacement patients enjoy significant pain relief, with many retaining these benefits two decades post-procedure.
Exploring the Basics: What is Hip Replacement?
A hip replacement surgery involves substituting worn-out surfaces of a hip joint with a new hip joint, a specially designed artificial prosthesis. This new hip implant is meticulously crafted using robust metal, ceramic, and polymer (plastic) components, aiming to mimic the feel and movement of a natural joint.
Typically, a hip replacement is recommended for individuals suffering severe pain or stiffness in the hip joint, hampering their ability to carry out daily activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, or getting up or sitting down. Generally, hip replacement patients are those who’ve exhausted all non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, injections, or medication, with minimal satisfactory results.
The Hip Replacement Surgery Process
During the hip replacement surgery, an orthopedic surgeon creates a small incision around the hip joint, employing a minimally invasive technique to access the hip joint. The surgeon then proceeds to remove the damaged bone and cartilage before positioning the artificial joint components. Post-surgery, patients usually regain mobility within a few hours and are often discharged the same day or after a single overnight stay.
Recovering from Hip Replacement Surgery
While hip replacement surgery usually necessitates minimal time off work and other responsibilities, recovery duration largely depends on your job’s demands. Although patients are advised to begin moving and walking with assistance right after the procedure, full recovery is contingent on how long it takes for your muscles to regain strength. Post-surgery physical therapy primarily focuses on progressively restoring strength and mobility in the new hip joint.
Potential Risks and Complications of Hip Replacement
Like any surgical procedure, hip replacement carries some risks, such as infection, implant loosening, dislocation, and fracture, but precautions are taken to minimize these risks. If the hip implant wears out over time, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in revision surgery can perform hip revision surgery, replacing parts of the prosthesis or the entire implant, if necessary.
Keep in mind that revision surgery is more complex and time-consuming than initial joint replacement surgery, and not all orthopedic surgeons are equipped to perform it. Hence, when exploring “what is hip replacement,” considering an orthopedic surgeon with specialization in this area is recommended.
Board-Certified and Fellowship Trained Orthopedic Surgeon in Raleigh, Apex, and Durham, NC
Dr. Brett Gilbert is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in minimally invasive hip replacement or total hip arthroplasty, and he can greatly improve your health and mobility with his extensive knowledge of hip conditions, treatments, and advanced training in hip surgery.
Dr. Gilbert not only performs hip replacement surgery but also revision hip replacement surgery. He performs surgeries at North Carolina Specialty Hospital, Triangle Surgery Center, and Southpoint Surgery Center.
Our caring and friendly team can provide you with the best possible care for your painful hip condition. To schedule a consultation, call our office today at (919) 788-8797 or use our online form to request an appointment.
