Hip replacement surgery has become more common over the years. It involves the replacement of a damaged hip with an artificial one also known as an implant. If you’re wondering ‘how long does a hip replacement last’, you should note that the artificial hip is designed to last for at least 15 years. The procedure helps to provide patients with significant improvement in mobility as well as reduction in pain. Most of the people that require this surgery are between the ages of 60 and 80. If you or a loved one is due for surgery, you may be wondering about issues such as hip surgery recovery time and more. Read on to find out more about the procedure and learn what to expect.

When a Hip Replacement is needed

There are various reasons for a hip replacement. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Osteoarthritis
• Hip fractures
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Septic arthritis
• Bone dysplasias (disorders that result in unusual growth of the bone)

Hip replacement surgery is only considered necessary when the hip joint is so damaged or worn that mobility is severely reduced or there is pain even while the patient is resting.

Who is Offered Hip Replacement Surgery

Wondering why hip replacement surgery was recommended? Hip replacement surgery is only offered when other less intensive treatments are not beneficial for improving mobility or reducing pain. Your doctor may recommend this procedure if:

• You are experiencing severe pain, stiffness or swelling in your hip joint and your mobility is reduced.
• The pain you are experiencing is so intense that it interfered with your quality of life
• You are no longer able to carry out everyday tasks such as shopping or even walking
• You are showing signs of depression as a result of the pain and lack of mobility
• The pain and lack of mobility have interfered with your social life or work.

How Hip Replacement Surgery is Performed

Patients receiving hip replacement surgery are put under general anesthesia. The patient is therefore asleep throughout the procedure. Some patients receive a spinal anesthetic instead. This numbs them from the waist down but the patient remains awake during the surgery. An incision is made throughout which the surgeon removes the damaged hip joint and replaces it with the implant.

Hip Resurfacing

This is an alternative type of procedure that involves the removal of the damaged surface of the bones on the inside of the hip joint. The surface is replaced with a metal surface to reduce damage to the bones. This procedure results in less bone removal and quicker recovery. It is recommended for men that are very active and have larger hips. However, due to concerns of metal fragments causing damage to soft tissues, the procedure isn’t very popular today.

Preparing for Hip Replacement Surgery

It is important to stay active and strengthen the muscles around the hip prior to surgery. This will help speed up your recovery. Incorporate gentle strengthening exercises such as walking and swimming into your routine. You may also discuss other ways to enhance your recovery with a physiotherapist.

Recovering from Hip Replacement Surgery

Hip surgery recovery time varies for different patients. You will be required to stay in hospital for about 3 to 5 days depending on your condition. When you are discharged, you will need to visit a physiotherapist for guidance on exercises to perform to help strengthen your hip muscles and improve mobility.

Risks of Hip Replacement Surgery

There are various risks associated with hip replacement surgery including:

• Hip dislocation
• Infection of the surgical site
• A significant difference in leg length
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Injuries to nerves or blood vessels
• Fractures during or after the operation

There is also a risk of the implant wearing out earlier than expected. Some people therefore have to undergo revision surgeries to replace or repair the joint.

Metal-on-Metal Implants

There have been instances where metal-on-metal implants have become worn out earlier than expected. This results in the deterioration of the bone as well as the tissue around the hip. Patients have also been found with traces of metal in their blood.

Are you experiencing hip pain and reduced mobility? Contact us to schedule consultation with an experienced and skilled hip replacement surgeon in Bellevue.