The Benefits of Hip Replacement Surgery

Hip replacement surgery, also known as Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA), is used to treat end-stage hip disease.

Hip replacement surgery involves replacing the damaged or diseased articulating surfaces of the hip joint with artificial implant materials. These materials mimic the function of healthy hip joint cartilage, allowing the hip to function smoothly.

Generally, hip replacement surgery is implemented as a last-resort treatment option, utilized when conservative treatment options, i.e, physical therapy, activity modification, and pain management, have failed to manage pain and maintain hip function.

Pioneered by British surgeon Sir John Charnlee, total hip replacement surgery has been performed with regularity since 1960, generally with outstanding results.

Individuals crippled from the pain of a diseased or arthritic hip joint can return to pain-free, active lifestyles following the surgery.

During hip replacement surgery, an incision is made to expose the hip joint. The femoral head, or hip ball, is dislocated and then removed. The surgeon inserts in its place an artificial femoral head, typically made either of ceramic or metal, and then securely implants the femoral stem directly into the femur (leg bone).

The cup part of the hip joint, the acetabulum, is machined down to a smooth, even plane. An artificial cup implant is then inserted and affixed directly into the prepared acetabulum. This implant is made typically of plastic or ceramic and allows the replaced femoral head to glide smoothly within the hip joint.

After the prosthetic implant parts are affixed, the surgeon reattaches the muscles and soft tissues surrounding the joint and the incision is closed.

Following total recovery from the surgery, which can take anywhere from 8-12 months, an individual can expect pain-free, near-normal hip joint function.

Leg length discrepancies, which often develop as the result of severe hip disease, are often corrected by the surgery, or at the very least minimized, generally allowing for a limp-free gait.

Although an active lifestyle can be resumed following hip replacement surgery, certain activity restrictions apply to protect the prosthetic joint from premature wear and/or dislocation, including avoiding any high-impact/high-stress activities, such as running and jumping, and most forms of high-contact competitive/professional sports.

Safe and recommended activities include cycling, swimming, golf, walking, and doubles tennis.

Overall, total hip replacement surgery is a highly-successful surgical procedure that has restored an active, pain-free lifestyle to millions of people suffering the effects of end-stage hip disease.