A total hip replacement, also known as total hip arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to relieve pain and restore function in a damaged hip joint. Typically recommended for individuals suffering from severe arthritis or hip injuries, this procedure can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life by increasing mobility and reducing discomfort. Let’s break down the essential aspects of the process to help you better understand what to expect.
Why Do People Need Hip Replacements?
One of the most common reasons for total hip replacement is osteoarthritis, which wears down the cartilage in the hip joint, leading to bone-on-bone friction. Other conditions that may warrant hip replacement surgery include rheumatoid arthritis, traumatic injuries like fractures, and conditions like avascular necrosis, which compromises blood flow to the bones.
When non-surgical treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or injections no longer provide relief, a total hip replacement may become necessary.
How the Procedure Works
A total hip replacement procedure involves replacing the damaged hip joint with an artificial one. The surgery begins with the surgeon making an incision near the hip to access the joint. The damaged bone and cartilage are carefully removed, leaving healthy bone intact. Next, the surgeon inserts a prosthetic socket into the pelvic bone, followed by replacing the head of the femur with a metal or ceramic ball attached to a stem that is placed into the thigh bone.
The materials used for these prosthetics are typically designed to last many years, often including combinations of metal, ceramic, and durable plastic. These components work together to mimic the natural motion of the hip joint and provide pain relief while improving mobility.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery from a total hip replacement typically involves a hospital stay of one to three days, depending on the patient’s overall health and progress. The initial recovery phase focuses on managing pain, preventing complications such as blood clots, and beginning physical therapy to regain mobility. Physical therapy plays a critical role in the recovery process, helping patients strengthen the muscles around the hip and learn how to walk with their new joint. Most people can resume everyday activities within three to six weeks, but full recovery may take several months.
Benefits of the Procedure
For most patients, the benefits of a total hip replacement far outweigh the risks. Many experience reduced pain, increased mobility, and improved quality of life. In fact, the success rate of this surgery is high, with over 90% of patients reporting long-lasting relief from symptoms.
Watch the video above to learn more about what to expect from your total hip replacement in East Texas!.
