What is hip replacement surgery?
Hip replacement surgery, also known as hip arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure for treating hip pain. During this procedure, our Hip Surgeon removes a damaged or injured hip joint and replaces it with an artificial joint comprised of metal and plastic components.
Patients with severe arthritis suffer from extreme achy discomfort and immobility due to the deterioration or lack of cartilage. A hip replacement is performed when all other treatment options have failed to alleviate pain and stiffness in the hip joint.
Am I a suitable candidate for hip replacement surgery?
You may be ready for this surgery if you have significant and persistent hip pain that is interfering with your ability to walk, sleep, work, or go about your daily activities.
Our orthopedic specialist may recommend other measures to relieve pain like pain medication, walking aids, and physical therapy. If these treatments fail to reduce pain and stiffness, you may need hip replacement surgery to restore function and improve your quality of life.
How do I prepare for the surgery?
During your consultation, your doctor will review your medical history and current medications and examine your hip thoroughly. They will likely require some tests before surgery, such as blood tests or an X-ray. This appointment will help your doctor determine which type of hip replacement you need. Tobacco usage should be avoided for a month before surgery and two months following surgery because it can interfere with your healing process.
How does hip replacement surgery work?
Hip replacement surgery is performed under general anesthesia. The Hip surgeon starts the procedure by making incisions through the layers of tissue at the side or back of the hip (posterior approach) or the front of the hip (anterior approach).
After making the incision, the surgeon will remove the damaged bone tissue and cartilage. Then they will either replace both the injured ball and the socket (total hip replacement) or just the injured ball of the hip (partial hip replacement) with new, artificial pieces.
Within weeks of surgery, both types of hip replacement provide pain relief and improved walking and movement.
What should I expect after the surgery?
After surgery, your blood pressure, pulse, and comfort level will all be monitored. Our expert Hip Surgeon will determine how long you should stay at the hospital depending on your condition and needs.
Your replacement hip joint will relieve the pain you were experiencing before the procedure, as well as expand your joint’s range of motion.
However, you should avoid strenuous activities until you fully recover from the procedure. Our doctor will recommend that you start physical therapy for several weeks to months after surgery to help you walk and ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
Schedule your hip consultation at Novomed today!
If your hip pain is affecting your quality of life, you should consider having hip replacement surgery.
Schedule your consultation with one of our highly qualified Orthopedic Surgeons today by calling toll-free 8006686 or clicking the live chat icon at the bottom of the screen.