Hip Replacement Surgery

Hip pain can severely impact your daily life, making simple tasks difficult and reducing your overall quality of life. If you’re struggling with hip pain that doesn’t improve with other treatments, hip replacement surgery might be the solution to help you regain your mobility and relieve pain.

At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties in Chardon and Middlefield, Ohio, our experienced orthopaedic surgeons are dedicated to providing personalized care to help you return to an active lifestyle. Learn more about hip replacement surgery and how it can benefit you. Contact us today!

What is Hip Replacement Surgery?

Hip replacement surgery (also known as total hip arthroplasty) is a procedure in which a damaged hip joint is replaced with an artificial implant. This surgery aims to relieve pain and improve function in patients with severe hip damage.

The procedure involves removing the damaged parts of the hip joint and replacing them with metal, ceramic, or plastic components. These artificial implants mimic the natural function of the hip joint, allowing for smoother movement and pain relief.

Hip replacement surgery can be a life-changing procedure for individuals suffering from chronic hip pain and mobility issues. By replacing the damaged joint with a prosthesis, patients can regain their independence and enjoy a better quality of life.

Surgeons performing a hip replacement surgery in Chardon, Ohio.

Types of Hip Replacements

There are different types of hip replacement procedures available depending on your condition. There are also different approaches to surgery depending on factors such as your age, weight, and fitness level.

Total Hip Replacement

A total hip replacement surgery involves replacing both the ball (femoral head) and the socket (acetabulum) of the hip joint with artificial implants. This is the most common type of hip replacement and is highly effective for treating severe joint damage caused by arthritis or injury. The artificial hip implant is designed to last for many years, providing long-term pain relief and improved joint function.

Anterior Hip Replacement

Anterior hip replacement is a specific type of total hip replacement that uses a minimally invasive approach, accessing the hip joint from the front (anterior) of the body. This method differs from the traditional posterior approach, which requires cutting through muscles at the back of the hip. In an anterior hip replacement, the hip surgeon works between muscles rather than cutting them, often leading to lower post-operative pain.

Partial Hip Replacement

Partial hip replacement, or hemiarthroplasty, involves replacing only the femoral head, leaving the socket intact. This type of surgery is typically performed for patients with certain types of hip fractures or localized damage to the femoral head. Partial hip replacement can be a suitable option for younger patients or those with less extensive joint damage.

Minimally Invasive Hip Replacement

Minimally invasive hip replacement uses smaller incisions to reduce muscle damage, shorten hospital stays, and speed up recovery. This technique can be used for both total and partial hip replacements, offering benefits such as reduced pain, faster rehabilitation, and a lower risk of complications. Minimally invasive hip replacement is an advanced surgical approach that requires specialized training and expertise.

How Do You Know If You Need a Hip Replacement?

Persistent hip pain, difficulty walking, and limited mobility are common indicators that you might need a hip replacement. If you’ve tried other treatments, such as physical therapy, medications, or injections, without relief, it’s time to consult with an orthopaedic surgeon. During your consultation, the surgeon will assess your symptoms, medical history, and imaging results to determine if hip replacement surgery is the best option for you.

Some signs that you may need hip replacement surgery include:

  • Persistent pain that interferes with daily activities
  • Stiffness that limits your ability to move or bend your hip
  • Difficulty walking or standing for long periods
  • Pain that persists even at rest or during sleep
  • Reduced range of motion in the hip joint

Are You a Candidate for the Surgery?

Ideal candidates for hip replacement surgery are those who:

Candidates for hip replacement surgery typically include older adults with severe joint damage and younger patients with hip injuries or congenital conditions. A thorough evaluation by an orthopaedic surgeon will determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure. Factors such as your overall health, activity level, and bone density will be considered when making this decision.

Conditions That Hip Replacement Helps Treat

Hip replacement surgery is commonly performed to treat:

  • Osteoarthritis
  • Post-traumatic arthritis
  • Avascular necrosis
  • Hip fractures
  • Severe hip joint damage
 

These conditions can cause significant pain, stiffness, and disability, making it difficult to perform everyday activities. Hip replacement surgery can provide relief from these symptoms and restore joint function, allowing you to lead a more active and fulfilling life.

How Should I Prepare for My Hip Replacement Surgery?

Preparation for hip replacement surgery involves several important steps to ensure a successful outcome. These include the following listed below.

Medical Evaluation and Tests

Before surgery, you will undergo a thorough medical evaluation, including blood tests, imaging studies (X-rays or MRI), and a physical examination. Your surgeon will review your medical history, including any medications you are taking, to ensure you are a good candidate for the procedure.

Medication Management

You may need to stop taking certain medications before surgery, such as blood thinners or anti-inflammatory drugs, to reduce the risk of complications. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on which medications to stop and when to stop them.

Preparing Your Home

Make arrangements for help at home during your recovery period. Prepare your living space by removing tripping hazards, installing grab bars in the bathroom, and setting up a comfortable recovery area with essential items within reach.

Preoperative Instructions

Follow your surgeon’s preoperative instructions carefully, including fasting before surgery and using antiseptic soap to reduce the risk of infection.

During the Procedure

During hip replacement surgery, your orthopaedic surgeon will follow these steps:

  1. Anesthesia: You will be given anesthesia to ensure you are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. This may be general anesthesia (you are asleep) or regional anesthesia (you are awake but numb from the waist down).
  2. Incision: The surgeon will make an incision to access the hip joint. The size and location of the incision depend on the surgical approach used.
  3. Removing Damaged Tissue: The damaged bone and cartilage are removed from the hip joint, preserving as much healthy bone and soft tissue as possible.
  4. Implanting the Prosthesis: The artificial hip implants are inserted into the prepared bone. The prosthesis typically consists of a metal stem that fits into the femur, a ceramic or metal ball that replaces the femoral head, and a plastic or metal cup that replaces the acetabulum.
  5. Closing the Incision: The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied.
 

The procedure usually takes a few hours, and you will be monitored in the recovery room before being transferred to a hospital room.

Recovery

Recovery from hip replacement surgery involves several stages:

Rehabilitation

Physical therapy is a crucial part of the recovery process. Your physical therapist will design a personalized rehabilitation program to improve muscle strength, joint flexibility, and overall mobility. You may need to use assistive devices, such as a walker or crutches, during the initial recovery period.

Home Recovery

Once you are discharged from the hospital, you will continue your recovery at home. Follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding wound care, medication management, and activity restrictions. Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon will monitor your progress and address any concerns.

Long-Term Recovery

Full recovery from hip replacement surgery can take several months. Most patients can resume normal light activities within 3- 6 weeks, but complete healing and adjustment to the new hip joint may take up to a year. Staying active, following your physical therapy program, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will contribute to a successful recovery.

What Are the Risks?

As with any surgical procedure, hip replacement surgery has risks, including:

How Successful is Hip Replacement Surgery?

Hip replacement surgeries have a high success rate, with most patients experiencing significant pain relief and improved function. Advances in surgical techniques and implant materials have increased the longevity of hip replacements. Most patients report a dramatic improvement in their quality of life, allowing them to return to activities they once enjoyed.

Schedule an Appointment Today

If you would like to know more about hip replacement surgery and determine if it’s the right option for you, schedule an appointment at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties. Our dedicated team in Northeastern OH, is here to help you every step of the way. Visit our office today!