Arthritis causes the cartilage covering of the ball and socket of the hip joint to wear away, resulting in bone on bone joint movement. This is typically causes significant stiffness and pain. There is nothing that can be done to replace the cartilage. It is a permanent problem that can only get worse. Fortunately hip surgery is extremely successful in relieving pain and returning you to normal functioning.
How do you decide if I need a hip replacement?
Usually pain that is in your groin or the front part of the hip means you are a candidate for hip surgery. We look at your x-ray to see if the image on the x-ray correlates with the pain you are having. You can try using soft soled shoes or anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve the pain. Cortisone injections for the hip are difficult because of the location of the hip joint. If these do not work and the pain is intolerable, total hip surgery is your only option for pain relief.
How do you decide if you will do the surgery from the front of the hip rather than the side or back?
When possible the anterior approach is my preferred option for a total hip replacement. The surgery is done from in front of the hip rather than in the side or back, like in traditional hip replacements. Each patient is evaluated on an individual basis to determine which approach is best for them. Typically about 90% of my patients qualify for the anterior approach.
What can I expect from surgery?
The surgery typically takes about 60-90 minutes. You’ll recover in our surgery suite until you are awake from the anesthesia and your vital signs are good. Our Care Team members will then move you to our Joint Replacement Center where you will stay until you are discharged.
How long will I stay in the hospital?
You will typically spend one to two days in the Joint Replacement Center and receive physical therapy to prepare you to return home. Normally on the first day you will be able to have full weight bearing exercise with a walker.hen you will transition to a cane for a week or two before getting back to independent ambulation by 4-6 weeks. In some cases patients elect to go to a rehabilitation facility after surgery if they do not have help at home to assist in their recovery In some cases patients elect to go to a rehabilitation facility after surgery if they do not have help at home to assist in their recovery.
What happens when I go home?
Follow-up physical therapy usually is needed after you leave the hospital. Initially this will be done in your home or a rehabilitation facility if you choose go to there then possibly followed by outpatient physical therapy. You’ll come to our office in two weeks to have your wound checked to see how you are doing. X-rays are obtained at least visit. Full recovery typically takes 3-6 months.
