Dr Rahul Aggarwal
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Hip Replacement

WHAT IS TOTAL HIP REPLACEMENT

It is a surgical procedure where a damaged hip joint (both femoral head and acetabulum) is replaced by artificial implant, said as prosthesis.

 AIM OF THR

Total Hip replacement surgery is a safe and effective procedure that can relieve your pain, increase motion, and help you get back to normal, everyday activities

HOW A NORMAL HIP LOOK

  • It is a ball-and-socket joint.
  • The socket is formed by the acetabulum, which is part of the large pelvis bone.
  • The ball is the femoral head, which is the upper end of the femur (thighbone).

WHEN TO DO THR

  • A damaged, painful hip, not responding to conservative measures is an appropriate candidate for surgery.
  • There are no absolute age or weight restrictions for total hip replacements.
  • Surgery is based on a patient's pain and disability.

WHAT WE DO IN THR

In a total hip replacement, the damaged bone and cartilage is removed and replaced with artificial components.

  • The damaged femoral head (ball) is removed and replaced with a metal stem that is placed into the canal of the femur bone.
  • The metal stem implant is fixed to bone by either bone cement- a synthetic material used to fix metal stem to bone, or is press fitted (uncemented).
  • A metal or ceramic ball is fitted on the upper part of this stem. This ball replaces the damaged femoral head that was removed.
  • The damaged cartilage on the socket (acetabulum) is removed and replaced with a metal or polyethylene socket which are again press- fitted or fixed by bone cement.
  • A plastic, ceramic, or metal spacer is inserted between the new ball and the metallic socket to allow for a smooth gliding surface. Commonest is the plastic spacer.

HOW LONG IT TAKE TO RECOVER

  • Stay in the hospital usually is for 3-5 days.
  • Stitches or staples are used on skin along your wound.
  • The stitches or staples will be removed approximately 2 weeks after surgery.
  • Patients may begin standing and walking with the help of a walking support and a physical therapist the day after surgery.
  • Normal light activities of daily living within 3 to 6 weeks following surgery

PROTECTING YOUR REPLACED HIP

  • Participate in a regular exercises to maintain proper strength and mobility.
  • Avoid falls and injuries.
  • Make sure to inform about the replacement to the doctor before any surgical procedure in future.
  • Routine follow-up examinations and x-rays, even if the hip replacement seems to be doing fine.