What is hip replacement?
Hip replacement surgery, also known as total hip arthroplasty, is a procedure that replaces a damaged hip joint with artificial parts.
During the surgery, our surgeons remove damaged bone and cartilage from the hip joint and replace them with durable parts made of metal, ceramic or plastic.
Our highly trained orthopedic surgeons can perform hip replacement through various approaches, including the anterior approach (from the front of the joint) and the posterior approach (from the back of the joint).
Most people experience significant pain relief and improved function after hip replacement surgery.
Who is a candidate for hip replacement?
Hip replacement surgery can treat severe hip pain and stiffness caused by conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and hip fractures.
If other treatment options, such as medication, physical therapy and lifestyle changes, have been unsuccessful, your doctor may recommend hip replacement surgery.
When evaluating whether hip replacement surgery may be right for you, your doctor will consider several factors, including:
- your age, overall health and medical history
- the severity of your hip pain and stiffness
- the extent of damage to your hip joint
- your activity level and lifestyle
- your expectations for surgery
If you're considering hip replacement surgery, it's important to discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with your doctor. You should also ask about the recovery process and what you can expect after surgery.
What to expect
Before the surgery
- Work with your surgeon and primary care doctor to manage any chronic conditions and make sure you're medically ready for surgery.
- Focus on lowering A1C for diabetes, becoming smoke-free and improving nutritional status three to six months before surgery.
- Arrange for a family member or friend to be your "coach" and help you for the first week after surgery.
During the surgery
- Hip replacement surgery typically lasts one to two hours.
After the surgery
- Before discharge, you'll learn how to get in and out of bed, sit in a chair and walk with a walker.
- You'll receive education on pain and swelling management and how to progress in your movement and activities at home.
- To prevent complications, follow your surgeon's precautions about how to use your joint and what movements to avoid.
- You'll receive prescriptions for medications to manage pain and prevent blood clots.
- You'll have a follow-up appointment one to two weeks after surgery so your surgeon can assess your incision, mobility and comfort.
- Expect an 80–90% recovery in about six weeks, with full recovery around one year.
- Recovery time may vary based on your pre-surgery health, other conditions and commitment to your strengthening regimen.
Benefits of hip replacement
Hip replacement surgery can help relieve physical, mental and emotional discomforts related to living with daily pain. Knowing that your new hip is healthy and strong can help you feel more confident and secure as you get back to your favorite activities or even try new ones.
Benefits for most people include:
- pain relief
- improved mobility
- peace of mind
- better quality of life