Hip replacement surgery can seem like a magical solution for many problems that plague you. But before you rush off to your orthopedist with an open cheque book, you must understand what this operation entails and its potential consequences.
Introduction
The central hip joint comprises two ball-and-socket pairs: the upper acetabulum and the lower socket, the cup. When these two components fail, they often fail together, making it necessary to replace them to restore functional ability. The prominence of hip replacement surgery can be attributed to its high success rate; only 4% of those who undergo this procedure will suffer a recurrence within three years postoperatively.
Hip replacement is also considered one of the most comfortable surgeries today because it eliminates any pain or discomfort in the operated joint and replaces it with artificial hardware. However, there are some things you should know before agreeing to have this surgery so that you don’t end up regretting your decision.
What is Hip Replacement?
Hip replacement surgery is performed to fix a broken hip joint. The surgeon removes the worn-out joint pieces and replaces them with a prosthetic joint composed of metal, ceramic, or plastic.
Who is in Need of a Hip Replacement?
If you have chronic hip discomfort from arthritis or an accident that interferes with your daily activities and does not improve with medication or other physical therapy. In that case, your doctor may recommend a hip replacement. The most prevalent reason for hip replacement is arthritis discomfort.
What exactly is an artificial hip?
A metal stem attaches the replacement hip to your thighbone. A plastic or ceramic liner is placed between the ball and cup to aid joint gliding. Your surgeon may cement the new hip to the bone or use a hip that allows your bone to grow onto and attach itself to it.
How Long Is a Hip Replacement?
Your replacement hip is intended to last long but will not last forever. 95% of hip replacements endure at least ten years, 75% last 15 to 20 years, and slightly more than half last 25 years or more. Stay active, avoid high-impact activities, and maintain a healthy weight to help your replacement hip last longer. If you are young and energetic, you may need to have the same hip replaced again in the future.
Suggested Read: Everything You Need To Know About Partial Knee Replacement
What Takes Place During Hip Replacement Surgery?
You will sleep under general anaesthesia or be sedated with your lower body numbed throughout this procedure. The procedure normally takes around an hour or two. Your surgeon will create an incision across the front or side of your hip, remove the damaged components of your hip, and replace them with new hip pieces. To aid alignment, the placement might be done robotically. Surgical stitches or staples will be used to seal the wound.
Following Hip Replacement Surgery
You will most likely be admitted to the hospital for one or two nights. Your nurses will administer pain medication so that you may begin moving the replacement joint as soon as possible. This is critical for recovery. You’ll meet with a physical therapist in the hospital to start your recovery plan.
If you are looking for a hospital that provides hip replacement surgery in India, you can visit the website of Med Tour Advisor where you can find the best doctors and clinics online.
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