Total Hip Replacement is performed for patients with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other conditions in which the smooth cartilage of the proximal femur (ball) and acetabulum (socket) is lost causing pain with activities. As the arthritis progresses, patients often complain of pain at night as well as loss of motion of the hip joint.
The procedure involves taking away the damaged cartilage and replacing it with metal and plastic. Sometimes, in certain patients, ceramics are used for the replacement articulation.
Total hip replacement is reserved for patients with pain due to hip arthritis that is refractory to more conservative measures such as anti-inflammatory medications, activity modification, and injections.
The procedure typically takes 60-75 minutes and patients will stay in the hospital overnight. The patient will walk on their new hip the day of surgery. Many will have significant pain relief immediately. Often a walking aid will be used for the first few weeks for safety purposes with continued recovery over the next 4-6 weeks.
Physical therapy will be utilized to help patients recover and teach the exercises and precautions needed to maintain and protect their hip.
To the staff: May 14th was the 6 month anniversary of my hip surgery. Thank you for sharing your talent & compassion during the pre and post op visits. It’s nice to be pain free!
