Hip Replacement
Also called total hip arthroplasty, this is a surgical procedure that replaces the worn or damaged parts of the hip joint with smooth artificial components. It is usually recommended when hip pain and stiffness from arthritis or injury make it difficult to walk, sleep, or enjoy normal activities.
When to Consider Surgery
Hip replacement may be considered if you have:
- Persistent hip pain that limits walking or daily activities
- Pain at rest or during the night
- Stiffness or loss of movement
- Little or no improvement with medication, injections, or physiotherapy
The most common cause is osteoarthritis, but hip replacement may also be needed for rheumatoid arthritis, avascular necrosis, or fractures.
Anatomy
The hip is a ball-and-socket joint, formed by the femoral head (the ball at the top of the thigh bone) and the acetabulum (the socket in the pelvis). Both surfaces are normally covered with smooth cartilage, which allows easy, pain-free movement.
When the cartilage wears out, the bones rub together, leading to pain, stiffness, and loss of motion.
Total Hip Replacement
The Procedure
During surgery, the damaged ball (femoral head) and socket (acetabulum) are removed and replaced with artificial components:
- The socket is replaced with a metal or ceramic cup, sometimes with a plastic liner
- The ball is replaced with a metal or ceramic head, attached to a stem placed inside the femur
The procedure usually takes 1–2 hours and is performed under general or spinal anaesthesia.
Recovery
Most patients begin walking with assistance on the day of surgery.
- Hospital stay is typically 1–3 days.
- Physiotherapy begins early to help regain movement, balance, and strength.
- Most people resume normal activities within 6–12 weeks, although full recovery may take up to 6 months.
Low-impact activities such as walking, cycling, and swimming are encouraged once the hip has healed.
Expected Outcomes
Total hip replacement is one of the most successful and predictable operations in orthopaedic surgery. It can provide:
- Excellent pain relief
- Improved mobility and function
- Long-lasting results, with modern implants often lasting 20 years or more.
Possible Complications
Although complications are uncommon, potential risks include:
- Infection or wound problems
- Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
- Hip dislocation
- Leg length difference
- Ongoing pain or stiffness
- Wear or loosening of the implant over time
Your surgical team will take steps to minimise these risks and guide you safely through recovery.
When to Seek Help
Contact your doctor or hospital urgently if you notice:
- Increasing redness, swelling, or discharge from the wound
- Fever or chills
- Sudden hip pain, clicking, or inability to move the leg
- Calf pain or shortness of breath.
