Is hip pain making it difficult for you to stay active or get a good night’s sleep? You’re not alone; hundreds of thousands of people undergo hip replacement surgery each year to reduce pain and improve mobility, enhancing their overall quality of life.
If you’re a candidate for hip replacement, you likely have questions about the procedure, recovery expectations, and whether it’s the right choice for your situation.
Here’s a guide to the basics of hip replacement surgery and where you can find outstanding hip replacement surgeons in Pembroke Pines, FL.
What is Hip Replacement Surgery?
Hip replacement surgery is a procedure where a hip replacement surgeon replaces a painful hip joint that’s not working well with an artificial one. This new joint, made from metal and plastic parts, helps reduce pain and restore the movement of the hip joint. The artificial joint is designed to mimic the movement of a healthy hip joint.
There are two main types of hip replacement surgery: partial hip replacement and total hip replacement.
Partial Hip Replacement
Otherwise known as hemiarthroplasty, this surgery involves replacing only the damaged part of the hip joint, typically the femoral head (or ball). This is a less invasive procedure with a shorter recovery time compared to a total hip replacement. It’s often recommended for older patients with hip fractures.
Total Hip Replacement
In a total hip replacement, both the ball and socket of the hip joint are replaced with artificial parts. This is a more comprehensive procedure and offers better long-term outcomes for conditions like hip arthritis. However, the recovery time is generally longer than that of a partial hip replacement.
Hip replacement procedures can be done in two ways: through open surgery or minimally invasive surgery. In open surgery, a large cut is made to reach the damaged joint, while minimally invasive surgery requires smaller cuts and causes less harm to the tissues around the hip.
The goal of minimally invasive procedures is to lessen the impact on healthy tissues, which can lead to less pain after surgery, faster healing, and fewer complications than traditional surgery methods. However, not everyone is suitable for this kind of operation.
The surgeon performing your hip replacement will decide the best method for you, considering your medical history, age, and the severity of your hip joint damage.
Reasons for Hip Replacement Surgery
Hip replacement surgery is a procedure in which a damaged hip joint is removed and replaced with an artificial joint. The most common reason for hip replacement surgery is osteoarthritis, which is a degenerative disease that occurs when the cartilage cushioning the bones in the joint slowly wears away.
Other reasons include rheumatoid arthritis, hip fractures, avascular necrosis, and developmental dysplasia of the hip.
How Does Hip Replacement Surgery Work?
The goal of hip replacement surgery is to alleviate pain and improve mobility.
The procedure begins with anesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the surgery. The surgeon then makes an incision over the hip to expose the joint. The damaged ball of the joint at the top of your femur (thigh bone) is removed and replaced with a metal stem inserted into the femur’s hollow center. A metal or ceramic ball is placed on the upper part of this stem.
Next, the damaged cartilage surface of the socket (acetabulum) is removed and replaced with a metal socket. A plastic, ceramic, or metal spacer is inserted between the new ball and the socket to allow for smooth gliding, much like your natural joint.
After the surgery, the patient is taken to a recovery room, where they are monitored for a few hours before being transferred to a hospital room.
What are the Risks of Hip Replacement Surgery?
Like any surgery, hip replacement comes with potential risks. These include:
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Hip dislocation
- Fractures
- Change in leg length
- Prosthesis problems like loosening or wear and tear over time.
The good news is that these complications are relatively rare, and your hip surgeon will take steps to minimize them.
What to Expect After Surgery?
Post-replacement surgery, you’ll likely stay in the hospital for a few days. Physical therapy usually starts the day after surgery to help regain strength and mobility.
Pain is a part of the recovery process, but it will be managed with medications. It’s essential to follow your hip replacement surgeon’s advice regarding activity levels, wound care, diet, and medication to aid recovery and avoid complications.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Recovery time varies from person to person. Most people can resume normal activities within three to six months, but complete recovery can take up to a year. Regular physical therapy and a commitment to recommended exercises at home are key to a successful recovery.
Hip Replacement Surgery in Pembroke Pines, FL
If you’re struggling with hip pain or dysfunction, don’t let it hold you back from living your life to the fullest. Total Orthopaedic Care offers comprehensive orthopedic services, including total joint reconstruction, that can help restore your mobility and improve your quality of life.
Our team of highly skilled and experienced joint replacement surgeons uses the latest techniques and technology to ensure you receive the best possible care. We specialize in both partial and total hip replacement surgeries, tailoring each procedure to meet your specific needs and health conditions.
To know more about us or to schedule a consultation, call us today at (954) 735-3535 or use our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
