John Ready, MD | | Other Bone and Joint Q & A Topics:
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What is involved in hip replacement surgery?
Hip replacement (arthroplasty) is a surgical procedure to replace or restore a damaged hip joint to ease pain and improve mobility. Artificial materials, such as metal, polyethylene or ceramics, are used to either resurface the hip joint or replace it totally with a prosthesis. Most of these procedures are now done laparoscopically (minimally invasive), which helps to reduce recovery time. Total joint replacement is typically done for either the hip or knee, but the shoulder can also be replaced with a prosthesis.. Brigham and Women’s Hospital is a leading provider of arthroplasty for all major joints, including the hip, shoulder, knee, elbow and wrist.
When would a total hip replacement be necessary?
The need to replace a hip joint is typically caused either by osteoarthritis, which wears down cartilage, or rheumatoid arthritis, tissue inflammation leading to the destruction of cartilage and bone. Without sufficient cartilage, the bones start to rub against each other, causing friction, swelling, stiffness and pain.
How long does it take to recover from hip replacement surgery?
Hip replacement surgery generally takes about 2-3 hours, followed by a 4-day stay in the hospital. Recovery largely depends on your general health before the surgery and the type of joint that is being replaced. Most hip and knee replacement recipients experience pain relief and/or improved movement relatively quickly, but then need several months to recover their normal strength and energy.
What type of movements should I avoid after hip replacement surgery?
For 6 - 12 months after hip replacement surgery, you should avoid pivoting or twisting on your affected leg, crossing the affected leg over your other leg, bending forward at the waist and squatting. A physical therapist will provide you with techniques and adaptive equipment that will enable you to follow these guidelines and still perform daily activities.
What can I do to aid my recovery after hip replacement surgery?
Here are a few simple things that you can do to make your life easier and to help the healing process after your surgery:
- Sit in a firm, straight-back, non-reclining chair
- Remove all throw rugs and any clutter that could lead to falls
- Use an elevated toilet seat, which will help keep you from bending too far at the hips
- Avoid stairs
What are my options for replacing a hip joint?
Our surgeons now offer minimally invasive surgery for the hip that can reduce the risks and shorten the recovery time associated with traditional open surgery. These benefits are largely attributable to the reduced blood loss and tissue trauma that is enabled by the small incisions used in minimally invasive surgery. However, those patients who do not qualify for minimally invasive surgery should be aware that traditional open surgery is still considered to be extremely safe and effective.
Resurfacing, rather than total joint replacement, may be preferable in some cases where the joint hasn’t degenerated too extensively and the patient has good bone density. A metal-on-metal resurfacing implant offers more durability and less friction than the metal-on-plastic devices used in many traditional joint replacements, such as those used for the hip. Resurfacing improves the joint’s stability and lessens the likelihood of future surgery.
A patient may also be able to avoid arthroplasty entirely if certain conditions are treated before significant joint deterioration occurs. Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that can remove loose bodies (fragments of cartilage or bone), remove a femoroacetabular impingement (excess bone) or repair labral (cartilage) tears. Visit the New Options Offer Alternatives to Total Hip Replacement page to learn more.
Are there any risks?
Hip replacement surgery has been performed since the 70s, and techniques continue to improve. However, there are certain risks for hip replacement surgery, as there are for any surgical procedure. Some possible complications of hip replacement surgery may include, but are not limited to:
- bleeding
- infection
- blood clots in the legs or lungs
- loosening of prosthetic parts
- numbness due to nerve damage.
- joint dislocation
Your specific medical condition may also bring other risks, so please consult your physician.
How long will my new hip joint last?
Studies have shown that about 85 percent of hip joint implants will last at least 20 years. However, improvements in surgical technique and artificial joint materials should make these implants last even longer in the very near future. If the joint becomes damaged prematurely, surgery to repair it is typically very successful.
Learn more
To make an appointment or learn more about the Brigham and Women's Hospital Joint Arthroplasty (Knee and Hip Replacement) program, call 1-800-BWH-9999 or visit the Department of Orthopedic Surgery Web page.
