- Hip replacement surgery, or arthroplasty, is a common procedure that provides people with degenerative bone diseases, such as arthritis, a new lease on life. The damaged joints are removed and replaced with a prosthesis, providing patients with welcomed pain relief, increased mobility and improved hip function. Surgery to replace the damaged hip joint takes about one or two hours. Through a 6- or 8-inch incision, the physician removes the damaged cartilage and leaves healthy tissues intact. Typically the head of the femur, which is a ball-like apparatus, is inserted in the space where the hip meets the pelvis. The prosthesis is either cemented in place or set between the bones to allow natural tissue to form and create a sealant for the hip. Cement is more commonly used on elderly patients who have limited mobility and weaker restoration systems. Uncemented prosthesis are reserved for younger patients who tend to be more active.
- Following the surgery, patients must remain in bed with props to hold the hip in place and tubes that allow for any drainage that's needed. After a couple days, patients can sit up in bed and begin to test standing and walking abilities. Respiratory therapists assist patients with breathing exercises that can help to expel any fluids that may have gathered in the lungs during the surgery. Patients are encouraged to begin with basic muscle strengthening Kegel exercises that involve tightening and releasing the muscles surrounding the hip. People with a hip replacement also are taught new ways to move, bend and stoop to accommodate the prosthesis. An average hospital stay of three to five days is required, followed by anywhere from two to five months of physical rehabilitation.
- Hip replacement surgery is a common procedure in the United States, with nearly 200,000 surgeries performed each year, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. The organization reports that close to 90 percent of the surgeries are successful and do not require further surgeries to correct any problems. Part of the success of the procedure depends on the patient's' willingness to follow rehabilitation suggestions from a physical therapists and to refrain from overly exerting the new hip implants. Movements, such as drawing the knees up to the chest, can pop the new hip joint out of place. Jogging, playing tennis or participating in any high-impact activity too soon can also cause the new prosthesis to move out of place and require further surgery. Inflammation is another possible side effect that may require the use of anti-inflammatory medications or the insertion of a new prosthesis.
