Find A Professional
More Videos On This Subjectdiagnosis
Total Hip Replacement
Introduction
Total hip replacement, also known as hip arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure intended to relieve pain and improve function in patients with hip joint damage. It is a common orthopedic surgery in the United Kingdom, designed for patients suffering from arthritis, fractures, or other hip-related issues.
Causes and Symptoms
The primary cause of hip replacement is osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease that causes the cartilage to break down, resulting in pain and stiffness. Other reasons include rheumatoid arthritis, hip fractures, and avascular necrosis, where the blood supply to the hip bone is reduced. Symptoms leading to hip replacement include chronic pain, reduced mobility, and discomfort that interferes with daily activities.
The Surgical Procedure
In the UK, the total hip replacement surgery typically involves replacing the damaged hip joint with a prosthetic implant. The operation usually takes 1-2 hours and is performed under general or spinal anaesthesia. The procedure involves removing the damaged head of the femur and the hip socket and replacing them with artificial components made of metal, plastic, or ceramic.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery from total hip replacement surgery involves a hospital stay of 2-5 days. Physiotherapy begins soon after the surgery to aid in the recovery of mobility and strength. Patients are encouraged to walk with the assistance of crutches or walkers soon after the procedure. Full recovery and return to normal activities typically take 3-6 months, although this varies from person to person.
Risks and Complications
As with any surgery, there are risks associated with hip replacement surgery. These include infection, blood clots, dislocation of the implant, or wear and tear over time, which may require revision surgery. However, advances in surgical techniques and implant materials have significantly reduced these risks.
Conclusion
Total hip replacement is a highly effective procedure for relieving pain and restoring function in patients with severe hip damage. With proper care and rehabilitation, many patients in the UK enjoy a significant improvement in their quality of life. As always, it is essential to discuss the potential benefits and risks with a healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a total hip replacement?
A total hip replacement is a surgical procedure where a damaged hip joint is replaced with an artificial one, typically due to arthritis or injury.
How long does hip replacement surgery take?
The surgery usually takes between 1 to 2 hours, but the overall time at the hospital including preparation and recovery may be longer.
What materials are used in hip replacements?
Hip replacements are commonly made from metal, ceramic, or plastic components.
What are the risks associated with hip replacement surgery?
Risks include infection, blood clots, implant dislocation or wear, and differences in leg length.
How long will the hip replacement last?
Most hip replacements last between 15 to 20 years, but this can vary based on activity level and other factors.
What is the recovery time after hip replacement surgery?
Recovery time varies, but most people can return to normal activities within 3 to 6 months.
Will I be able to walk immediately after hip replacement surgery?
You will likely begin walking with the aid of a walker or crutches within a day or two after surgery.
Do I need physical therapy after a hip replacement?
Yes, physical therapy is an important part of the recovery process and helps improve mobility and strength.
Can I drive after hip replacement surgery?
You can usually start driving again 6 to 8 weeks post-surgery, depending on your recovery and if you can operate the vehicle safely.
How do I prepare for hip replacement surgery?
Preparation involves medical evaluations, stopping certain medications, arranging help at home and following pre-surgery instructions from your doctor.
Are there any alternatives to hip replacement surgery?
Alternatives include medications, physical therapy, injections, and other less invasive surgical options.
What should I expect on the day of surgery?
Expect to arrive a few hours before surgery for preparation, which includes changing into a hospital gown, meeting with the surgical team, and undergoing anesthesia.
How much does a hip replacement cost in the UK?
Costs can vary widely but on the NHS, it may be free whereas private surgery can range from £10,000 to £15,000.
What will my scar look like after hip replacement surgery?
The scar from hip replacement surgery is generally about 10-20 cm long and fades over time but may remain visible.
Can I return to sports after a hip replacement?
Many patients can return to low-impact sports like swimming, cycling, or golf after recovery, but high-impact activities should generally be avoided.
Useful Links
Useful links from: Hip replacement
- NHS - Hip Replacement Comprehensive guide from the NHS covering hip replacement surgery, including when it's needed, how it's performed, risks, recovery, and aftercare.
- Arthritis Research UK - Hip Replacement Information from Versus Arthritis on hip replacement surgery, why it’s needed, what to expect during the procedure, and recovery tips.
- British Hip Society Patient information on hip replacement and other hip-related surgical procedures, provided by the British Hip Society.
- Age UK - Hip Replacement Advice and support from Age UK for older adults considering or recovering from hip replacement surgery, including fitness tips and well-being advice.
Useful links from: A journey to hip surgery
- NHS - Hip Replacement The official NHS page providing comprehensive information about hip replacement surgery, including reasons for the procedure, how it is performed, recovery tips, and potential risks.
- Versus Arthritis Versus Arthritis offers detailed information on hip replacement surgery, including the procedure, preparation, recovery, and personal stories. It also covers how the surgery can help with arthritis pain and mobility.
- Arthritis Action - Hip Surgery Arthritis Action provides insights and advice on hip replacement surgery, covering how to prepare for the operation, what to expect during recovery, and post-surgery care to manage arthritis.
- Age UK - Hip Replacement Surgery Age UK offers a guide on hip replacement surgery specifically tailored for older adults, including what to consider before surgery, recovery tips, and how to manage daily activities post-surgery.
Useful links from: Having a hip replacement - Part Two: Recovery
- NHS: Recovering from hip replacement surgery This NHS page provides detailed information on what to expect and how to manage recovery after hip replacement surgery, including advice on mobility, pain management, and resuming daily activities.
- Versus Arthritis: Hip Replacement - Recovery Versus Arthritis offers guidance on recovering from hip replacement surgery, covering physiotherapy, exercises, and lifestyle adjustments to help with recovery.
- Royal College of Surgeons: Recovery from hip replacement surgery The Royal College of Surgeons provides a detailed guide on recovering from hip replacement surgery, including tips on managing pain, expected milestones, and precautions.
- Age UK: Hip Replacement Recovery Advice Age UK's guide covers recovery from hip replacement surgery for older adults, offering tips on physiotherapy, home adaptations, and managing daily life during the recovery period.
Useful links from: Total hip replacement at Northumbria Healthcare
- Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust Find comprehensive information about hip replacement services, patient resources, and recovery information provided by Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.
- NHS - Hip Replacement The official NHS page detailing hip replacement surgery, including indications, how it is performed, recovery, and risks involved.
- Versus Arthritis - Hip Replacement Versus Arthritis offers detailed insights into hip replacement surgery, preparation, post-operative care, and patient stories.
- Age UK - Hip Replacement Age UK provides advice and information on hip replacement surgery, especially tailored for older adults, covering pre-surgery preparation and recovery tips.
Useful links from: Total Hip Replacement
- NHS - Total Hip Replacement The NHS official page on hip replacement, covering information about the procedure, risks, recovery, and alternatives.
- Versus Arthritis - Hip Replacement Surgery Versus Arthritis provides an in-depth guide on hip replacement surgery, including what to expect before, during, and after the operation.
- Arthritis Action - Total Hip Replacement Arthritis Action offers detailed advice and support on living with arthritis, including information on hip replacement surgery.
- The British Hip Society - Patient Information The British Hip Society provides resources and information for patients undergoing hip replacement surgery, including FAQs and recovery tips.
Useful links from: Hip replacement - getting into bed
- NHS - Getting in and out of bed after hip replacement Guidance from the NHS on how to safely get in and out of bed following a hip replacement, including useful techniques and tips.
- Versus Arthritis - Hip Replacement Surgery Versus Arthritis provides comprehensive information on hip replacement surgery, including recovery tips and how to manage daily activities like getting into bed.
- Age UK - Hip replacement recovery guide Age UK's guide offers detailed advice on recovering from a hip replacement, including practical tips for getting in and out of bed, and adjusting to home life post-surgery.
- NHS Inform - Recovering from hip replacement surgery NHS Inform provides detailed information on the recovery process after hip replacement surgery, including advice on getting in and out of bed and other mobility tips.
More Videos On This Subjectdiagnosis
Have you found an error, or do you have a link or some information you would like to share? Please let us know using the form below.
- Ergsy carfully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
- Videos shown by Youtube after a video has completed, have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
- To view, click the arrow in centre of video.
- Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
- You may need to turn these on, and choose your preferred language.
- Go to the video you'd like to watch.
- If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
- To turn on Captions, click settings .
- To turn off Captions, click settings again.