What is Hip Replacement?

Hip replacement, also known as hip arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which a damaged hip joint is replaced with an artificial implant (prosthesis). This surgery is typically recommended for patients with severe hip pain and dysfunction due to conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, hip fractures, or other degenerative diseases.

Key Features of Hip Replacement:

1. Indications:

   • Severe hip pain that limits everyday activities such as walking or bending.
   • Pain that persists despite the use of medications and physical therapy.
   • Stiffness in the hip that restricts movement.
   • Damage to the hip joint from conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, avascular necrosis, or hip fractures.

2. Types of Hip Replacement:

   • Total Hip Replacement (THR): Both the acetabulum (hip socket) and the femoral head (ball) are replaced with prosthetic components.
   • Partial Hip Replacement (Hemiarthroplasty): Only the femoral head is replaced, often used in cases of hip fractures.
   • Hip Resurfacing: The femoral head is capped with a smooth metal covering, and a metal cup is placed in the acetabulum, typically for younger, more active patients.

3. Prosthetic Components:

   • Acetabular Component: The socket part of the prosthesis, usually made of metal, plastic, or ceramic.
   • Femoral Component: The ball part, typically made of metal or ceramic, attached to a metal stem that fits into the femur.

The Procedure:

1. Preoperative Preparation:

   • Thorough medical evaluation, including physical exams and imaging tests.
   • Discussion of the surgery, including risks, benefits, and expected outcomes.
   • Preoperative physical therapy to strengthen muscles around the hip.

2. Surgical Steps:

   • Anesthesia: General or regional anesthesia is administered.
   • Incision: A surgical incision is made over the hip joint.
   • Removal of Damaged Bone and Cartilage: The damaged femoral head and acetabulum are removed.
   • Implant Placement: The prosthetic components are inserted and secured into place.
   • Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied.

3. Postoperative Care:

   • Pain Management: Medications to control pain and inflammation.
   • Physical Therapy: Early mobilization and exercises to regain strength and mobility.
   • Monitoring for Complications: Regular follow-ups to check for signs of infection, blood clots, or prosthetic issues.