Hip Replacement Surgery
What is Hip Replacement Surgery?
Hip replacement surgery, or hip arthroplasty, is a procedure designed to replace a damaged or worn-out hip joint with an artificial prosthesis. This surgery is typically recommended for individuals experiencing chronic pain or mobility issues that have not improved with other treatments, such as physical therapy or medication. Common causes for hip replacement include osteoarthritis, hip fractures, or other joint conditions. The goal of the surgery is to relieve pain, improve movement, and help patients return to a more active lifestyle.
Types of Hip Replacement Surgery: Choosing the Right Option for You
There are different types of hip replacement surgeries. The choice of procedure depends on factors such as the patient’s age, activity level, the condition of the hip, and the surgeon’s recommendation. The main types of hip replacement include:
- Total Hip Replacement (THR): The most common type, THR involves removing the damaged hip joint and replacing it with an artificial one. This procedure is recommended for patients with severe arthritis, fractures, or other degenerative conditions that affect the entire joint.
- Partial Hip Replacement (Hemiarthroplasty): This procedure involves replacing only the damaged part of the hip joint, typically the femoral head (the ball), while leaving the socket intact. It is often recommended for patients with hip fractures or arthritis affecting only part of the joint.
- Hip Resurfacing: In this procedure, the femoral head is not removed. Instead, it’s capped with a metal prosthesis. It is an option for younger patients with strong bones, as it preserves more of the original bone structure.
Each type of hip replacement surgery offers distinct benefits, and your orthopedic surgeon will help determine the best option based on your individual needs.
When Should You Consider Hip Replacement Surgery?
Hip replacement surgery is typically considered when conservative treatment methods, such as medications, physical therapy, or lifestyle modifications, fail to provide relief from persistent hip pain and mobility limitations. If you are experiencing ongoing discomfort and reduced quality of life due to hip joint issues, it may be time to consult with an orthopedic specialist to explore surgical options. Key indicators that you may need hip replacement include:
- Persistent Hip Pain: Chronic pain that interferes with your daily activities—whether it's constant or worsens with movement—may be a strong sign that the hip joint has deteriorated to a point where surgery is necessary.
- Reduced Mobility and Flexibility: If you find it increasingly difficult to perform tasks such as walking, bending, or climbing stairs due to stiffness or pain in the hip joint, hip replacement surgery could restore your mobility and improve overall function.
- Failure of Non-Surgical Treatments: If you've tried physical therapy, medications, injections, or lifestyle changes without sufficient relief, it might indicate that the hip joint is beyond repair with conservative methods, and surgery may be the best option.
- Failure of Non-Surgical Treatments: If you've tried physical therapy, medications, injections, or lifestyle changes without sufficient relief, it might indicate that the hip joint is beyond repair with conservative methods, and surgery may be the best option.
- Hip Fractures or Trauma: If you've experienced a hip fracture or injury that results in joint instability or poor healing, hip replacement surgery may be necessary to restore proper function and relieve pain.
The decision to undergo hip replacement should be made after careful consultation with a qualified orthopedic surgeon, who will evaluate your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.
Different Ways to Perform Hip Replacement Surgery
When it comes to hip replacement surgery, there are a few different ways to gain access to the hip. The term "approach" simply refers to where the surgeon makes the incision to access the hip joint during the procedure. Your surgeon will choose the best method for you based on your specific condition and needs. Here are the main types:
- Posterior Approach: This is the most common method, where the surgeon makes an incision at the back of the hip. It allows good access to the joint and is effective for most patients.
- Anterior Approach: In this method, the incision is made at the front of the hip. It’s less invasive, causing less disruption to muscles and often leading to a quicker recovery, but it may not be suitable for everyone.
- Lateral Approach: The incision is made on the side of the hip. This is another option based on your individual situation and your surgeon’s preferences.
Robotic-Assisted Hip Replacement Surgery
At CHRISTUS Health, we offer the option of robotic-assisted hip replacement surgery, which uses advanced technology to assist surgeons in performing the procedure with high precision. This approach can provide greater accuracy in placing the implant, potentially resulting in a quicker recovery and less post-surgical pain for some patients.
However, not every patient is a candidate for robotic surgery, and many of our skilled surgeons perform successful hip replacement surgeries using traditional methods. Your surgeon will discuss the best approach for your individual needs. Ultimately, the goal is to get you back to the life you love, as quickly and safely as possible.
Physical Therapy After Hip Replacement
Physical therapy is an essential part of the recovery process after hip replacement surgery. The goals of a complete physical therapy program include:
- Improve range of motion and flexibility
- Strengthen muscles around the hip
- Enhance balance and coordination
- Restore daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and getting in and out of chairs