Total hip replacement surgery
Surgical information leaflet:
Why would total hip replacement surgery be needed?
Hip replacement surgery involves the replacement of damaged joints in the hip with synthetic prosthetics made of metal, plastic or ceramic. These joints can suffer degeneration due to a number of conditions that usually affect patients as they age.
Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and osteonecrosis are some of the most common conditions that affect the hip joints.
While osteoarthritis causes damage to the cartilage that helps bones move smoothly, rheumatoid arthritis is characterised by inflammation in the bones and joints that can also affect cartilaginous health. Osteonecrosis can occur in the hip joints as a result of injury and limits the blood supply to the ball of the hip joint; this can damage the bones in the hip as well.
Symptoms of degeneration in the hip joints include persistent pain that affects walking, sleeping, sitting and other physical activities such as climbing stairs and standing up from a sitting position. Total hip replacement surgery is needed to improve hip function and relieve pain when the hip joints and related tissues have suffered extensive damage that cannot be repaired with partial replacement surgery.
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How is it done?
Dr Oosthuizen will assess related symptoms and order scans or x-rays to determine the appropriate prosthetic implants needed for total hip replacement surgery. During the procedure, Dr Oosthuizen will work to remove the damaged tissues and bone in the hip before inserting new, prosthetic implants. This will involve the replacement of the ball and socket of the hip. A prosthetic ball and socket will be attached to healthy tissues of the thigh and pelvic bone respectively. Total hip replacement surgery will be performed while patients are under general anaesthetic. The procedure also involves an incision in the hip, which allows for access to the joints. Once the total hip replacement has been made, Dr Oosthuizen will stitch the incision closed.
What can be expected after surgery?
You may need to remain in hospital for about two days after total hip replacement surgery. During this time, you will be monitored for complications such as blood clots and infections. Dr Oosthuizen will also advise you on how to care for your wound as it heals, and how to exercise your new hip joint. You should avoid excessive bending while you heal and engage in physical therapy exercises to strengthen yourself. A full recovery is expected six to 12 months after surgery, but occasional follow-up appointments will be needed during this time to ensure that the hip replacement was a success.
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It is normally recommended that patients take 2-6 weeks off of work after total hip replacement surgery. Patients that have desk jobs may go back to work sooner than those who have manual labour jobs or have to be on their feet often.
Yes. Physical therapy is essential during recovery. It helps teach you exercises such as contracting and relaxing your muscles to help strengthen your hip. You’ll also learn movement techniques such as standing, sitting, and bending to help prevent any possible damage to the hip replacement.
Hip dislocation is the most common complication after hip replacement surgery, but it only occurs in 3% of all patients. When this occurs, revision surgery may be indicated to treat the problem.
