Total hip replacement

What is a total hip replacement?

A total hip replacement is an operation. It helps fix a hurt or sore hip. A doctor takes out the old hip joint and puts in a new one. The new hip joint is made of metal and plastic. This can help stop pain and make it easier to move.

If you find reading hard, ask someone you trust to read this out loud. You can also look at pictures or videos to help understand better.

How long does hip replacement surgery take?

Hip surgery is when a doctor fixes your hip. It takes about 1 to 2 hours. The doctor gives you special medicine, so you don't feel pain. If you have questions, you can ask your doctor before the surgery.

To help understand more, you can:

• Use pictures or videos about hip surgery.
• Ask someone to explain it with simple words.
• Use apps that help you understand medical words.

What are hip replacements made of?

What could go wrong with hip replacement surgery?

When you have hip replacement surgery, there are some things that could go wrong. These are called risks.

• You might feel pain or stiffness.
• You could get an infection. This means germs get inside and make you sick.
• The new hip might not fit right or stop working.
• There could be bleeding inside your body.
• You might get a blood clot. This is when blood gets thick and can block blood flow.
• Your leg lengths might be different after the surgery.

If you are worried, talk to your doctor. They can help you understand and feel better.

It's important to rest and follow your doctor's advice after the surgery.

Using tools like pictures or videos can help explain what will happen. Bringing a friend or family member to talk with the doctor is a good idea too.

How long will the new hip last?

Your new hip can last a long time. Many people have their new hip for 15 to 20 years.

To keep your hip working well:

• Move around every day. Walking is great!
• Be careful and avoid falling.
• Ask a doctor or nurse if you are worried.

Some tools can help, like:

• A walking stick or cane.
• Special shoes to help you walk safely.
• Exercises to make your legs strong.

How long does it take to get better after hip surgery?

Can I walk right after hip surgery?

No, you can’t walk right away. You will need to rest first. Then, doctors and nurses will help you start walking safely.

They have special ways to help you. They might use a walker or crutches. This is to keep you safe.

Here are some tips to help:

• Listen to your doctors and nurses.
• Use walkers or crutches to help you walk.
• Take small steps.
• Rest when you are tired.

Do I need physical therapy after a hip replacement?

After you get a new hip, doing special exercises can help you get better. These exercises are called physical therapy. Physical therapy helps your new hip work well and makes you strong.

It is important to follow the doctor’s advice and work with a therapist. They will show you easy moves to help you feel better.

Sometimes, you might use things like a walker or crutches to help you walk safely.

Taking your time and doing the exercises right will help your hip heal and get strong.

Can I drive a car after my hip surgery?

After you have hip surgery, talk to your doctor about when you can drive again.

Your hip needs time to heal before you can drive safely.

Here are some tips to help:

• Ask your doctor when it is safe to drive again.
• Make sure you feel comfortable and strong enough.
• Practicing driving in a safe area can help.

Supportive tools can include someone to help you get in and out of the car before you drive on your own.

How can I get ready for hip replacement surgery?

What is hip replacement surgery?
Hip replacement surgery is when a doctor takes out a damaged hip and puts in a new one to help you move better and feel less pain.

How to get ready:

• Talk to your doctor: Ask them what will happen during surgery and what you need to know.
• Eat healthy foods: Eating well helps your body stay strong.
• Exercise: Gentle exercises can make your body fit and ready.
• Stop smoking: If you smoke, try to stop. It can help you heal better.
• Ask for help: Talk to family or friends about helping you after surgery.

Tools that can help:
Using a planner or checklist can remind you of what to do. You can also draw pictures or use apps to help you understand better.

Are there different ways instead of hip replacement surgery?

What will happen on the day of surgery?

How much does it cost to get a new hip in the UK?

Getting a new hip is called hip replacement. It costs money in the UK.

Here is how you can find out the cost:

• Talk to your doctor. They can tell you more.
• Look online for information from trusted health websites.

It might help to have someone read with you or use a reading tool.

What will my scar look like after hip replacement surgery?

A scar is a mark left on your skin after surgery. After hip replacement surgery, you will have a scar on your hip where the doctor made a cut.

Here is what you can expect your scar to look like:

• At first, the scar might be red or pink and a bit swollen.
• Over time, it will become lighter and less noticeable.
• The scar’s size can be different for everyone. It might be a few inches long, running down the side of your hip.
• It might feel hard or bumpy at first, but it will get softer with time.

Tips for taking care of your scar:

• Keep it clean and dry.
• Use moisturizing lotion to help it heal.
• Ask your doctor if you can use scar creams or gels.
• Try not to scratch or pick at it.
• Protect it from the sun by wearing clothes over it or sunscreen.

If you have questions or worries, talk to your doctor or nurse.

Can I play sports after a new hip?

If you had your hip fixed, you might want to play sports again. This can be possible, but first, talk to your doctor. They will say if it's safe for you.

Here are some tips to help you:

• Start slowly. Take small steps when you start.
• Do easy exercises. Try walking or swimming.
• Listen to your body. Rest if you feel pain.
• Use tools to help you. Knee pads or braces might keep you safe.

Remember, always ask your doctor. They know what's best for you.