The hip joint is comprised of two bones. One is the thigh bone or the head of the femur. The other is the socket or the acetabulum. Since the 1960s when hip replacement surgery was introduced, hundreds of thousands of people each year, mostly seniors in their 60s, 70s and 80s, have had their hips replaced. The need for surgery is generally caused by arthritis or an injury or fracture.
Benefits
The benefits of hip replacement can include increased mobility and pain relief. You may be able to reduce or eliminate the prescription and over-the-counter pain medications you've been taking. You may be able to resume walking without the aid of a cane and re-engage in your exercise program. You may find that your quality of life improves.
Options
Total hip replacement consists of replacing the damaged hip joint and cartilage and replacing them with a prosthetic implant. The surgeon may use metal, plastic or ceramic components for the ball and lining. In younger patients, the surgeon may use a non-cemented prosthesis or a combination of a cemented ball and a non-cemented socket. Minimally invasive and small incision surgical techniques are also options in hip replacement procedures. Depending on the situation, a surgeon may choose hip resurfacing which conserves the hip socket. Only the head of the femur is reshaped and resurfaced.
Post-Surgery Recommendations
For best results after hip replacement or resurfacing surgery, it is recommended that you refrain from crossing their legs, bending over more than 90 degrees or turning their feet inward or outward. Using a pillow between your legs when you sleep is also recommended.
Warning
Find a surgeon whom you trust and who specializes in hip replacement surgery. Ask for referrals from people who have had hip replacement surgery. Research hip replacement surgery so that you can be an educated consumer. Prosthetic devices can wear out, loosen over time and become painful. If you are overweight, your hip replacement will wear out faster. Your doctor may ask you to lose weight before surgery.
