Hip Replacement Surgery- Risks And Recovery

Hip replacement surgery is a bit complicated task as such, it is better to get it done from a good orthopedic surgeon. Ensure you search for the best orthopedic surgeons near me before you go for this surgery to avoid complications in the future.

What is hip replacement surgery?
Hip replacement surgery is also known as total hip arthroplasty in which a surgeon will remove the impaired sections of the hip joint and replace them with parts generally made of ceramic, metal, and extremely hard plastic. This artificial joint (prosthesis) aids in reducing pain and improving function.

Hip replacement surgery could be the last option if hip pain affects daily activities and all the non-surgical treatments have been ineffective. Usually, arthritis damage (Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis) and osteonecrosis are the two major reasons for many people to opt for this surgery. Besides, accidents too can force this surgery.

How is hip replacement surgery performed?
Before surgery, an examination is conducted by the surgeon to know the current condition of the hip. An X-ray is done to know the motion level in the joint and also to know the strength of the adjacent muscles. Order blood tests are also conducted and very rarely an MRI may be done.

Before the surgery begins a spinal block or a general anesthetic is given. The surgery takes about a few hours during which a surgeon will cut the side or front of the hip through the tissue layers.

The surgery will focus on removing the damaged and diseased cartilage and bone leaving back the healthy bone as it is. After this, a prosthetic socket is implanted into the pelvic bone to make for the weathered socket. Followed by this, the circular ball present on the top of the femur is replaced with a prosthetic ball, which is connected to a stem that’s placed in the thighbone.

After the surgery, some may be asked to go home on the same day however the majority of them are asked to stay back in the hospital for post-surgery care.

As time passes the necessity for 2nd hip replacement may arise due to wear and tear.

Risks of hip replacement surgery
There could also be a few risks involved such as;

Blood clots
Infections
Fractures
Dislocation
Changes in the length of leg
Loosening of joints
Nerve damages

Home recovery and follow-up care after hip replacement surgery
Before you leave the hospital, you and the caregivers will be detailed regarding the post-surgery care to follow at home.

Below are a few rules to follow to avoid post-surgery complications;

Have a caretaker always beside you to assist you in daily chores.
It is always better to place your everyday essentials close to you, usually at your waist level. It will help you from bending too much, which is very important for a sooner recovery.
Make a few changes to the home environment such as a comfortable toilet setting, walking supporters near you, easy to lift cot, and so on. One should be very careful and make all the needed arrangements that will help be the hip not strain too much.
Place all your essentials such as tissues, phone, medicines, and other items that you feel are needed and important very close to you.
Make sure you are not straining the hip region too much and not moving it unless direly needed.
If you have to sit, sit on a straight-back firm chair. Recliners should not be used.
Try to avoid climbing stairs and if at all you are forced to climb, climb as little as possible by making all the arrangements for a safe climb.
There may be few exercises and therapies to be carried under the guidance of a physiotherapist or other GP. Follow these post-surgery activities for a quick recovery.

What activities should one not do after hip replacement surgery?
For about 6 to 12 months, it is very much essential not to twist or pivot the leg that has undergone surgery.
One should not cross the operated leg beyond the midline of the body and also not turn the operated leg inwards.
Bending at the hip beyond 90 degrees is also a strict no. This bending includes both squatting and bending frontward at the waist.
One may usually need a follow-up with the surgeon for 6 to 12 weeks after the surgery. Within this period, operated persons will usually recover totally and can carry on with normal life.
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