Hip Replacement Surgery

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“I have had 2 partial knee replacements & a hip replacement. In both instances, I received excellent care.” — Marilyn C.

Hip pain can make everyday activities like walking, standing, or even resting uncomfortable. When non-surgical treatments no longer provide relief, hip replacement surgery may be the best option for restoring mobility and improving quality of life.

At JIS Orthopedics, our highly skilled orthopedic surgeons in New Albany and St. Clairsville, OH, specialize in advanced hip replacement techniques. If you are considering hip replacement surgery, our team is here to guide you through the process. Call us today to schedule a consultation!

What is Hip Replacement Surgery?

Hip replacement surgery, also known as total hip replacement, is a surgical procedure that removes damaged parts of the hip joint and replaces them with hip implants made of metal, plastic, and ceramic. The goal is to restore function, reduce pain, and improve mobility.

The hip is a ball and socket joint, where the femoral head (the ball) fits into the acetabulum (the socket). When arthritis, injury, or wear and tear damage this joint, movement becomes painful and limited. Total hip replacement surgery provides a new hip, relieving discomfort and allowing patients to return to daily activities.

Hip Replacement vs. Hip Resurfacing

While both procedures address arthritic hip pain and improve mobility, they differ in approach:

Total hip replacement removes the damaged femoral head and replaces it with a ceramic ball attached to a stem placed inside the thigh bone. A new metal socket is also placed in the pelvis with a plastic liner secured within it. Therefore, your new hip becomes a bearing of ceramic on plastic.
Hip resurfacing reshapes and caps the existing femoral head with a smooth metal covering, preserving more of the natural bone.

Hip resurfacing is generally recommended for younger, active patients with strong bone density, while total hip replacement is more common for individuals with severe arthritis or bone loss.

Types of Hip Replacements

There are several types of replacement surgeries, depending on the extent of joint damage and the patient’s needs:

Total Hip Replacement (THR): The most common procedure replacing both the femoral head and the socket.
Partial Hip Replacement (also known as Hemiarthroplasty): Only the damaged femoral head is replaced, typically after a hip fracture.

There are different approaches to hip replacement as well. The general differences regarding how a hip replacement is approached focuses on whether muscles are cut versus simply moved aside (spared) to perform the surgery. Additionally, where your incision is placed is another important consideration.

At JIS Orthopedics, our surgeons tailor treatment plans to each patient’s needs, ensuring the best outcome for their hip replacement surgery. However, our typical approach involves the following two principles:

Minimally Invasive Hip Replacement: Smaller incisions and muscle-sparing techniques lead to a faster recovery.
Muscle-Sparing Anterior Hip Replacement: Accessing the hip joint from the front instead of the side or back reduces muscle damage and speeds up rehabilitation.

Conditions That Can Be Treated with Hip Replacement

Hip replacement surgery is recommended for patients suffering from:

Osteoarthritis: The most common cause of hip damage, leading to stiffness and chronic hip pain.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune condition that inflames the joint lining.
Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Joint deterioration following an injury.
Avascular Necrosis: A condition where poor blood supply leads to bone collapse.
Hip Fractures: Severe fractures may require hip replacement instead of repair.

If hip pain affects your mobility and quality of life, JIS Orthopedics can determine if a hip replacement is right for you.

Who is a Candidate for Hip Replacement Surgery?

You may be a candidate for hip replacement surgery if:

You experience persistent hip pain that interferes with daily life.
Non-surgical treatments, such as physical therapy, medication, or injections, no longer work.
Walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods has become difficult.
You have severe joint damage due to arthritis or injury.

Our orthopedic surgeons will assess your condition through physical exams, imaging tests, and a discussion of your lifestyle to determine the best treatment approach.

What Should I Expect from Hip Replacement Surgery?

You may expect the following before, during, and after surgery.

Before Surgery

Preparation for hip replacement surgery begins weeks before the actual procedure. Your orthopedic surgeon will conduct a thorough evaluation, including:

Medical history review: To assess overall health and any potential risk factors.
Imaging tests: X-rays and possibly MRI, or CT scans to help determine the severity of hip joint damage.
Pre-surgical instructions: You may be advised to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, to reduce the risk of blood clots.

Patients are often encouraged to engage in physical therapy before surgery to strengthen the muscles surrounding the hip joint, which can aid in post-surgical recovery. Additionally, making adjustments at home, such as installing a raised toilet seat and securing handrails, can enhance safety during recovery.

During Surgery

The surgical procedure generally lasts between one to two hours and is performed under general or spinal anesthesia. The key steps include:

Incision: The surgeon makes an incision, typically along the front, side, or back of the hip, depending on the technique used.
Removing damaged bone and cartilage: The arthritis of the femoral head and worn-out socket is removed and the surfaces are prepared to accept the new implants..
Placing the hip implant: The surgeon secures the new implants into place, intended to mimic the mechanics of your pre-diseased hip.
Closing the incision: The incision is closed with all absorbable sutures, and the skin is glued in the vast majority of the time.

After Surgery: Immediate Recovery

Once the surgery is complete, you will be taken to the recovery room, where medical staff will closely monitor vital signs and pain levels. You may experience some discomfort, but pain management strategies, including medication, are provided to ensure comfort.

Most patients begin gentle movement within a few hours of surgery, often with the assistance of a physical therapist or walker. Early mobilization is crucial in preventing complications like blood clots and promoting circulation.

Recovery & Rehabilitation

Recovery varies for each patient, but here’s what you can expect:

Hospital stay (if needed): The vast majority of patients go home the same day, but some may stay in the hospital for 1-2 days, depending on the procedure and overall health.
First 24-48 hours: The worst of the discomfort usually occurs during this time period so strategic use of pain medication is important. It will be important to begin mobilizing during this time period.
First few weeks: You may use a walker or crutches for support. These assistive devices can help you carry out daily activities.
3- 6 weeks: Most patients can return to normal activities with improved mobility and significantly reduced hip pain.

Long-Term Recovery & Outcomes

Full recovery can take several months, but most patients notice major improvements within 6 weeks.
Hip implants are designed to last 20-30 years or longer, depending on activity level and overall joint health.
Engaging in regular physical therapy and following post-operative guidelines can maximize the lifespan of your new hip and ensure a smooth recovery.

At JIS Orthopedics, we provide personalized care and rehabilitation plans to ensure a successful recovery, helping you get back to the activities you love as quickly and safely as possible.

Why Choose JIS Orthopedic Surgeons?

At JIS Orthopedics, we specialize in hip replacement surgery using advanced techniques for quicker recovery and better outcomes. Our expertise includes:

Minimally invasive and muscle-sparing approaches for reduced pain and faster healing.
State-of-the-art technology for precision and longevity of the hip implant.
Comprehensive rehabilitation programs to optimize mobility and function.
Personalized patient care from consultation to full recovery.

If you’re considering total hip replacement, our experienced surgeons are here to help you regain your mobility and live pain-free.

Take the Next Step Toward a Pain-Free Life

Don’t let hip pain keep you from enjoying life. The experts at JIS Orthopedics are ready to help you explore your treatment options, from non-surgical care to hip replacement surgery. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a new hip and a more active future.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Alexander G. Athey

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Treat Your Hip Pain Today!

If you are experiencing hip pain, schedule an appointment with JIS Orthopedics today. We have offices conveniently located in New Albany and St. Clairsville, OH. Our hip specialists are ready to help you relieve your hip pain!