Information on Hip Surgery
Hip surgery is performed on individuals with weakened joints, hip fractures and degenerative diseases that break down cartilage and bone. The goal of hip surgery is to improve the quality of life by reducing or eliminating hip pain and increasing mobility in everyday life. The type of hip surgery involved depends upon the severity of hip damage and the health of the patient. It may include total or partial hip replacement or hip resurfacing.
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Options for Hip Surgery Candidates
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The most common reason for hip surgery and hip replacement is osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis ultimately leads to deterioration of cartilage and bone, resulting in pain and in some cases total loss of mobility. Other forms of arthritis that resist pain management treatments and lead to degeneration of the hip joint may require hip surgery as well. Individuals with hip fractures may also benefit from hip surgery. Those with suppressed immune systems, heart disease and overall poor health may not be candidates for hip surgery and should discuss treatment options and risks with their doctor.
Partial Hip Replacement
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Partial hip surgery is used when only a portion of the hip joint is damaged or in the case of a hip fracture. With partial hip replacement, only the top of the femur is removed and a new hip joint is implanted. A thin metal rod or stem in inserted into the femur and a prosthetic metal ball joint is placed on top. The ball is then reinserted into the existing hip socket.
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Total Hip Replacement
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Total hip replacement is done when severe damage or degeneration to the hip is present. With total hip replacement, the ball joint and socket are both replaced. Like partial hip replacement, the top of the femur is removed and a prosthetic rod is inserted into the bone and capped with a ball joint. A portion of the hip socket is then cut away and reshaped and a cup-shaped prosthetic socket is fitted to the hip bone. The prosthetic pieces may be cemented into the bone and often results in faster recovery. Replacement without cement is usually performed on younger patients and requires longer recovery, as the bone grows and attaches to the replacement parts.
Hip Resurfacing
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Hip resurfacing is done in an attempt to preserve existing bones. Resurfacing involves capping the existing ball joint with a metal covering to improve range of motion and mobility. As in other hip replacement surgeries, a rod is inserted into the femur and capped with a metal ball joint replacement. Unlike other surgeries, hip resurfacing does not require removal of the top of the femur. The bone is reshaped and the ball cap is fitted over the existing bone. This procedure is done more often in younger patients and those without major bone loss.
Recovery
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Recovery from total or partial hip replacement surgery may take several months to a year, depending on the type of surgery involved and the patient's overall health and age. Full recovery from hip resurfacing is usually shorter than replacement surgery and full mobility is expected within two to three months of the procedure. In the first six weeks following all three surgeries, individuals will have very limited mobility and normal daily activities such as driving should be avoided until their doctor approves increased activity. Physical therapy after hip surgery is shown to speed the recovery process and increase strength and mobility.
Risks of Hip Surgery
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Initial risks involved with hip surgery may include infection, blood clots or hip fractures. Over time, loosening of the new joints or dislocation of the joint may occur. Depending on the type of surgery performed, hip implants may last as long as 20 years. Normal wear and tear on the joint may necessitate additional replacement surgeries in the future.
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