Total hip replacement: procedures, risks, etc. • hello healthy

Definition

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is inflammation or damage to one or more joints. The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, a condition when joints gradually become worn and torn. Several other types of arthritis are related to arthritis. Arthritis wears away the cartilage that covers the surface of the joint, causing damage to the underlying bone. This causes pain and stiffness in the joints.

When do I need to have a total hip replacement?

Doctors have several reasons for recommending this surgery to patients. Before getting the benefits of surgery, patients usually experience:

hip pain that limits daily activities, such as walking or bending over

hip pain that persists when you rest, either day or night

stiffness in the hip that limits the ability to move or lift the leg

The pain you feel is not treated adequately with anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, or a walker

Precautions & warnings

What should I know before undergoing a total hip replacement?

Total hip replacement is an elective procedure, or a procedure that can be chosen among other alternatives. The decision to undergo this surgery must be made based on a consideration of the benefits as well as the potential risks. A thorough understanding of the surgical procedure is also required before making a decision with an orthopedic surgeon.
Most people show good progress during their recovery period. The pain is reduced and the patient can move more actively than before even though basically, the artificial hip is not as comfortable as the real hip. The artificial hips must be maintained in the long term. These artificial hips can wear out and will need to be replaced over time.

Are there alternatives to surgery?

Symptoms can be relieved by taking painkillers such as paracetamol, anti-inflammatory painkillers, and intake of supplements. Consult your doctor further before you take supplements. Canes can be used to help you walk. Regular moderate exercise can help reduce stiffness. Steroid injections into the hip joint can relieve pain and stiffness. All of these alternative measures become less effective as the arthritis condition worsens.

Process

What should I do before having a total hip replacement?

In the preparation stage for surgery, make sure you tell your doctor about your health condition, any medications you are taking, or any allergies you have. The anesthetist will explain the anesthesia procedure and give further instructions. Make sure you follow all the doctor's instructions including the prohibition of eating and drinking before surgery. You will also need some home modifications to support the recovery process. Discuss with your doctor for further instructions.

How is the total hip replacement process?

Various anesthetic techniques may be used in this procedure. The operation usually takes one hour to 90 minutes. The surgeon will make an incision in the side of the hip and remove the damaged ball joint and socket. Then, the doctor will insert an artificial joint made of metal, plastic, ceramic, or a combination of these materials. Using acrylic cement or a special coating, the replacement hip can remain attached to the bone.

What to do after a total hip replacement?

After having surgery, you are allowed to go home after 3 to 7 days. For several weeks, you will need to use crutches or a cane to walk. Regular exercise has also been shown to speed up the healing process. But before deciding to exercise, you should ask a doctor for advice.

Complications

What complications can occur?

Every surgical procedure has its own risks, including a total hip replacement. The surgeon will explain all kinds of risks that may occur after surgery. Common complications that can occur after surgery are the aftereffects of anesthesia, excessive bleeding, or blood clots in deep veins (deep vein thrombosis or DVT).

Patients who undergo this procedure have the potential to experience complications:

femur apart

nerve damage around the hip

damage to the blood vessels around the hip

infection in the hip

stretchable replacement hips

there is bone formation in the muscles around the hip replacement

dislocation

difference in foot length

You can reduce your risk of complications by following your doctor's directions before surgery, such as fasting and stopping certain medications.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.