Hip replacement surgery can be a life-changing experience, giving you newfound mobility and easing your pain. Whether you are considering hip replacement or have scheduled an upcoming surgery, understanding what to expect from hip replacement surgery is the first step towards a more mobile life.
What is Hip Replacement Surgery?
Hip replacement, or hip arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to replace your damaged hip joint with an artificial implant. This surgery will restore the functioning of the hip joint, relieving your pain, stiffness, and improving your hip mobility. Hip replacement is often recommended for those suffering from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or a direct hip injury that has damaged the hip joint in some way.
What types of Hip Replacement Surgeries are Available?
There are a variety of types of hip replacement surgeries including posterior hip replacement, and anterior hip replacement. Dr. Buchalter performs the direct anterior hip replacement using the bikini incision which is the least invasive method and allows for a smaller scar as compared to other options.
What is the Procedure Like?
Hip replacement surgery is typically performed under general or localized anesthesia. During the procedure, a small incision is made to expose the hip joint. For minimally invasive results, this incision is made anteriorly, at the front of the hip, at the bikini line to reduce scarring and to spare muscles and ligaments from damage. Once the incision is made, the femur is dislocated from the hip socket, and any damaged bone or cartilage is removed. At this point, an artificial socket is created in the hip bone and then a metal, plastic, or ceramic spacer is inserted in the socket to allow smooth gliding. Next, the damaged ball of the femur is surgically removed and prepped for fusion with the new artificial femoral ball. This metal or ceramic femoral head is fit to the femur bone using bone cement. Finally, the artificial femoral head is inserted into the artificial socket producing a new functioning hip joint. Any damaged tendons or muscles are repaired and the incision is closed.
What Does the Recovery Process Look Like?
Recovery following hip replacement is a gradual process. Immediately following surgery, your physician will monitor your progress and you should be able to return home on the same or next day. In order to obtain optimal results, avoid movements that can put stress on your joints in the first few weeks following surgery. Physical therapy will likely be recommended by your physician to ensure the easiest return to activity.
Hip replacement surgery is one of the most successful orthopedic procedures available. It can help to restore hip functioning, relieve pain, and improve hip mobility. If you are considering hip replacement surgery, contact Dr. Burchalter for excellent orthopedic care today!
David N. Buchalter, MD is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in minimally invasive hip and knee replacement surgery at South Palm Orthopedics. Dr. Buchalter uses the latest cutting-edge surgical and nonsurgical techniques for orthopedic patients across South Florida.
