To begin with, hip replacement is a procedure in which the diseased parts of the hip are removed and are replaced with new artificial parts called as prosthesis. This greatly improves the mobility of the joint and the quality of life of the patient.
Here are the most commonly asked questions about hip replacement:
Who should have hip replacement?
Hip joint injuries and pain or dysfunction that interferes with the daily lives of individuals may require a replacement if the available treatments fail. Osteoarthritis is the most common cause of hip damage. Other conditions include rheumatoid arthritis, injury, fracture, and bone tumors also may lead to breakdown of the hip joint. In the past hip replacement was generally done for patients over 60 years of age so that it does not interfere with the daily activities of individuals and places less stress on the joint. However, today’s advanced technology enables hip replacement surgery to be carried out on young couples too. It can bear that amount of stress.
Are there any alternatives?
Exercise, physiotherapy and other medical treatments are available for treatment. Only after all other treatments fail, surgery is opted as the final resort. In some cases medicine and other treatments only delay surgery. Your doctor is the best judge and will recommend the right options after analyzing the situation.
What is the procedure?
During a hip replacement surgery, the surgeon removed the damaged one tissue and cartilage from the joint and leaves the healthy parts there. New artificial parts are placed. These parts are generally made of materials that allow natural gliding motion. Some latest surgeries include minimally invasive or mini-incision hip replacement. There are two types of parts replacement for joints: cemented and uncemented.
Cemented or uncemented?
Cemented parts are fastened to the existing healthy parts of the bone by special glues or cement. This is called cemented hip replacement. Uncemented procedures depend on biologic fixation that has the ability to hold them in place. The parts are made of a porous surface that allows your bones to grow and hold the new parts in place. Because each individual’s physical condition is different, your doctor will help you decide what is best for you.
Recovery and rehabilitation options
Only limited movement is permitted immediately after surgery. Exercises and certain movement practice are recommended by the doctor. Recovery requires patience and effort from the patient. Patients spend 3-5 days in the hospital. However, it’s months before you can restore your daily activities. For successful recovery, it is very important that you follow all the instructions that your doctor gives and consistently work towards leading a normal life.
Well, it’s a big decision, but it will help you live a better life. Your joints will be better and you will feel a new found energy. But be aware, dislocations of the newly replaced joint are also common. So, make sure that you take optimal care and contact your doctor immediately if you notice any kind of discomfort or infection after surgery.
Aditya Birla Memorial Hospital 