What is Total Hip Replacement?
Total Hip replacement (THR) surgery, also called total hip arthroplasty, involves removing a diseased hip joint and replacing it with an artificial joint, called a prosthesis. The prosthesis consists of steel components: a socket, ball, and stem. The outer shell of the socket is usually made of metal and the inner shell consists of plastic, or the entire socket may be plastic. When the metal ball is joined with the socket, the new hip can allow for smooth, nearly frictionless movement
The implants used in hip replacement are biocompatible — meaning they’re designed to be accepted by your body — and they’re made to resist corrosion, degradation and wear.
Hip replacement surgery is successful more than 90 percent of the time.
Total Hip Replacement
Reasons for Total Hip Replacement
To relieve pain of a damaged hip joint. Increase mobility of a damaged hip joint. To resume daily activities. Osteoarthritis Hip. Rheumatoid arthritis. Broken hip / Fracture Hip. Bone tumor
Osteonecrosis, which occurs when there is inadequate blood supply to the ball portion of the hip joint
Symptoms that might lead you to consider Total Hip Replacement include:
Persistent pain, despite pain medication
Pain exacerbated by walking, even with a cane or walker
Poor sleep due to pain
Difficulty going up or down stairs
Trouble rising from a seated position
Inability to participate in formerly enjoyable activities because of pain
How is Total Hip Replacement performed?
On the day of surgery, an intravenous tube will be inserted into your arm to administer necessary medications and fluids during surgery. You will then be taken to the operating room and given anesthesia.
The surgery usually takes two to four hours, although this is dependent upon the severity of the arthritis in your hip. In the operating room, a urinary catheter will be inserted and left in place for one or two days. Compression stockings and pneumatic sleeves will be put on both legs. The procedure is performed through an incision over the side of the hip. The ball-end of the thighbone (femur) is cut and replaced with the new metal ball and stem component. It may be stabilized with or without cement. The damaged surface of the socket is smoothed in preparation for the insertion of the new socket. The ball and socket are then joined. When the surgeon is satisfied with the fit and function, the incision will be cleaned and covered with dressings. You will also find small drainage tubes coming out of the hip to drain fluid from the wound.
You will be sent to the recovery room and as the anesthesia wears off you will slowly regain consciousness. A nurse will be with you, and may encourage you to cough or breathe deeply to help clear your lungs. You will also be given pain medication and will find a foam wedge or pillows placed between your legs to help hold your joint in place. When you are fully conscious, you will be taken back to your hospital room.
What to expect after Total Hip Replacement?
In the weeks immediately following surgery, you may need walking aids such as a cane or crutche and gentle rehabilitation program to help strengthen the muscles around your new hip and regain your range of motion. Within a few months, however, you should be able to return to normal activities.
Risk of Total Hip Replacement
Loosening or dislocation of implant
Slight difference in leg strength
Our hip specialist and his team will discuss these possible complications with you and the precautions taken against them.
For more information, please call (65) 66532628 – 24HR Hotline