HIP SURGERY
Hip pain is common. It can be caused by a variety of conditions such as wear and tear osteoarthritis, inflammatory arthritis, infection and previous trauma. These causes all result in a debilitating painful joint that is responsible for a significant reduction in quality of life.
When arthritis is present the smooth lubricating surface of the joints wear away leaving painful bone on bone articulations. This can be unrelenting and often causes pain throughout the day with restless sleep. The treatment for most arthritic painful hips is joint replacement surgery.
Total Hip Replacement Surgery
Total Hip Replacement (THR) is a surgical procedure aimed at alleviating pain and restoring function in patients with severe hip arthritis. This procedure involves replacing the damaged or diseased hip joint with an artificial implant, typically composed of metal, ceramic, or plastic components. THR is considered a highly effective treatment for conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, hip fractures, and avascular necrosis.
Causes of Diseases requiring Total Hip Replacement
Osteoarthritis: This degenerative joint disease is the most common reason for THR. It occurs when the articular cartilage covering the ends of the bones wears down, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion in the hip joint.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: A chronic autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and damage to the joint lining (synovium), resulting in pain, swelling, and eventual hip joint destruction.
Hip Fractures: Fractures of the hip joint are due to traumatic injury, falls, or accidents, which often disrupt the normal blood supply and then impair proper function of the hip joint.
Avascular Necrosis: Also known as osteonecrosis, it occurs when there is a loss of blood supply to the femoral head (the ball-shaped end of the thigh bone), leading to an area of bone death, collapse of the bone, and joint deterioration.
Who Requires Total Hip Replacement?
Candidates for THR typically experience significant pain, stiffness, and functional limitations that affect their daily activities and quality of life. Conservative treatments such as medications, physiotherapy, and lifestyle modifications may no longer provide adequate relief. Orthopaedic surgeons assess each patient individually based on symptoms, physical examination findings, imaging studies (X-rays, MRI), and overall health before recommending surgery.
How Total Hip Replacement Surgery Works
Incision: A surgical incision is made over the hip joint to access the damaged hip. The size and location of the incision may vary based on the surgeon's preference and the patient's anatomy.
Joint Access: The surgeon removes the damaged femoral head (the ball) and damaged cartilage from the acetabulum (hip socket). Any diseased or damaged tissue is carefully excised to prepare the joint for the implant.
Implant Placement: The artificial hip components are carefully positioned and secured in place. These components typically include a metal femoral stem inserted into the hollow centre of the femur (thigh bone), a metal or ceramic ball that replaces the femoral head, and a durable plastic, ceramic, or metal socket liner that lines the acetabulum.
Closure: After implantation, the incision is closed with sutures. A sterile dressing is applied to protect the wound.
Preparing for Total Hip Replacement Surgery
Before undergoing THR, patients undergo thorough preoperative preparation:
Medical Evaluation: A comprehensive review of medical history, including previous surgeries, current medications, and any existing medical conditions.
Imaging Studies: X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans are conducted to evaluate the extent of hip joint damage, bone quality, and anatomical considerations that may influence surgical planning.
Patient Education: Detailed discussions with the orthopaedic team regarding the procedure, expected outcomes, potential risks, and postoperative rehabilitation plan. This includes information on lifestyle modifications, such as weight management and activity modification, to optimise recovery and long-term joint health.
What to Expect After Total Hip Replacement Surgery
Following THR surgery, patients typically experience:
Hospital Stay: Most patients stay in the hospital for a few days to manage pain, monitor surgical site healing, and begin initial rehabilitation exercises.
Pain Management: Pain medications are administered to ensure comfort during the initial recovery period. These may include oral medications, intravenous pain relievers, or regional anaesthesia techniques.
Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation begins shortly after surgery to improve hip joint strength, flexibility, and functional mobility. Physiotherapists guide patients through exercises that gradually increase in intensity as healing and recovery progresses.
Activity Reintroduction: Patients are advised on gradually returning to daily activities, including walking with assistance and using assistive devices such as crutches or walkers as needed.
Recovery Timeline: Complete recovery and restoration of hip joint function can very from several weeks to months. Most patients experience significant pain relief and improved mobility within the first few months after surgery. However, individual recovery timelines may vary based on factors such as age, overall health, and adherence to rehabilitation protocols.
Total Hip Replacement (THR) is a well-established and successful surgical procedure that offers significant relief and improved quality of life for patients suffering from debilitating hip arthritis.
If you are experiencing hip pain or considering THR as a treatment option, feel free to contact Ortho Specialist Centre on 03 9088 2988 to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced orthopaedic surgeons. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care and support throughout your orthopaedic journey, ensuring the best possible outcomes.
