Hip replacement surgery, also known as total hip arthroplasty, is used to restore full motion to a damaged hip joint. In hip replacement surgery, the damaged joint is removed and replaced with a fully functioning artificial joint. Recovery can take months, but the restored ability to use the affected hip is successful in about 90 percent of cases, notes MayoClinic.com.
Purpose
The hip joint may incur damage slowly over time or as the result of an injury such as a fall. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteonecrosis and a tumor in the hip are all conditions that may necessitate hip replacement. First, a doctor will typically try other methods to ease the pain such as medication or physical aids such as a cane. Hip replacement surgery is performed after other attempted methods to relieve pain and restore motion in the hip joint have failed.
Procedure
For hip replacement surgery, the patient receives either a general anesthetic or a spinal block that numbs everything below the waist. The surgeon cuts into the hip, removes damaged bone and cartilage and places the artificial hip into the body. After surgery, the patient recovers in the hospital for three to five days and then returns home. Full recovery takes a few months to a year and the patient should have regular checkups during this time so that the doctor can asses how the hip is healing.
Risks and Complications
Because the artificial joint is slightly smaller than a real joint, it may accidentally dislocate, says the National Institute of Arthiritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. In a dislocation, the ball falls out of the socket of the joint. The recipient of the artificial hip may also experience inflammation as the body reacts to the new artificial joint. Other potential problems include infection, blood clots and abnormal bone growth around the edges of the artificial hip.
Recovery
An important component of recovery is a program of regular physical exercise to restore full functioning of the hip. Patients generally work with a physical therapist after a hip replacement to plan physical activity so that they can regain the use of their hip without damaging the new joint. Exercises such as swimming and walking may help aid recovery.
Considerations
Individuals planning a hip replacement often choose to modify their homes before the surgery to make things easier once they return home. Typical modifications include installing a raised toilet seat and situating frequently used items at waist level so that no bending is required. Some specialized devices, such as long-handled reachers, walkers and dressing aids may be suggested for use at home.
