Surgery

Here are some frequently asked questions related to hip replacement: Q: If I decide to have a total hip replacement, how many years will it last? A: New materials used in total hip replacement are very durable and are expected to last greater than ten years in 90% of individuals receiving total hips. The chance of […]

Here is a summary of the important facts and information related to hip replacement: Individuals suffering from a variety of hip problems can benefit from total hip replacement especially when pain results from wear and tear, disease, and injury. Following total hip replacement, most people are up and around walking to some degree the day

Here are definitions of medical terms related to hip replacement: acetabulum: The cup-shaped cavity or socket at the base of the hipbone where the ball-shaped head of the femur fits. ambulating: To walk from place to place; move about. arthrodesis: The surgical immobilization of a joint so that the bones grow solidly together. arthroplasty: An artificial joint or implant.

A hip replacement  is a surgical procedure that replaces the painful hip joint with an artificial hip joint. In a hip replacement, the head of the femur (the bone that extends from the hip to the knee) is removed along with the surface layer of the socket in which it rests (called the acetabulum). The head

Hip replacement can benefit individuals suffering from a variety of hip problems resulting from either wear and tear from a lifetime of activity or from disease and injury. Some of the common hip problems leading to a hip replacement are: Osteoarthritis Rheumatoid arthritis Traumatic arthritis Avascular necrosis Other reasons Osteoarthritis Osteoarthritis refers to wear and

A complete history and physical examination allows the physician to determine any correlation between symptoms of pain with past history and demands that have been placed upon the hip. The physician will inquire about experiencing episodes of trauma or instability, and examine the ligaments and hip alignment. X-rays are used to determine the extent of degeneration to the

Preparing for a total hip replacement often begins several weeks prior to the actual surgery. Emphasis is placed upon the individual maintaining good physical health before the operation. Upper body strength becomes important for the ability to use a walker or crutches after the operation. Before surgery the person will be scheduled for an appointment

During surgery, once the hip joint is exposed, the head and neck of the femur are removed. The shaft of the femur is then reamed to accept the metal component consisting of the head, neck, and stem. The acetabulum is then reamed to accept a plastic cup. The ball and socket are then replaced into

As with all major surgical procedures, complications can occur. Some of the most common complications following hip replacement are: Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) Infection Dislocation Loosening Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT) DVT can occur after any operation, but is more likely to occur following surgery on the hip, pelvis, or knee. Thrombosis occurs when the blood

Postoperative care begins with a team of heath professionals within the hospital. Those closely involved with the postoperative total hip patient are: Nurses Respiratory Therapists Physical Therapists Occupational Therapists The Nursing Staff After surgery, vital signs and sensation in the lower extremities are observed and checked by the nursing staff and documented for the physician.