ASK A DOC: Hip surgery and what to expect

There are two kinds of hip replacement surgery – total and partial. With total hip replacement, the entire damaged bone or cartilage is replaced with a prosthetic component. This is one of the most common types of joint replacement performed in the United States: more than 450,000 a year. This procedure is more complicated and has a more challenging recovery period than partial hip replacement, which is recommended for patients whose hip joint ball is worn and needs to be replaced with a prosthesis. Partial hip replacement is more straightforward and has the shortest recovery period. It accounts for a quarter of all hip procedures, with nearly 100,000 operations performed per year in the United States.

With more than half of the population of Boca Grande at 65 years and older, it’s no surprise that  needing – or recovering from – hip surgery is something we’re used to dealing with at the Clinic. In this installment of “Ask a Doc,” Raymond A. James, DO answers questions about what to expect with hip replacement surgery.

What kind of hip replacement surgery is being done nowadays?

There are two kinds of hip replacement surgery – total and partial. With total hip replacement, the entire damaged bone or cartilage is replaced with a prosthetic component. This is one of the most common types of joint replacement performed in the United States: more than 450,000 a year.

When is hip replacement surgery considered?

Hip replacement surgery is for patients who are having pain that impacts their daily lives, limits activities and disrupts sleep. Osteoarthritis is the most common cause of a hip wearing out and can be accelerated by obesity. When treatments like physical therapy, pain management and exercise haven’t worked, your doctor may recommend surgery.

What should I do to prepare for hip replacement surgery?

Surgery is a big decision that you’ll want to make in close consultation with your primary care physician and an orthopedic surgeon. Preparing for surgery can make your recovery speedy and smooth. Your doctor may recommend that you lose a few pounds or build up your strength before surgery. Physical therapy after surgery is a must, so it’s a good idea to meet with a therapist before surgery and maybe even learn how to do some postoperative exercises beforehand so you’re a step ahead. You should also make sure help from family and friends is available during your initial recovery. And if you’re alone, talk to your doctor about options like short-term rehab centers.

What is the most common problem after surgery?

Hip dislocations occur in only about 2% of cases and infections in less than 1%. Infections usually occur within the first week after surgery. Hip dislocation risk is greatest in the first three months after surgery, while the tissues are healing.  Infection and blood clots are risks of any surgical procedures and something your doctor will discuss with you prior to surgery. The good news is that millions of people who have suffered from hip pain and arthritis have experienced relief and restored mobility through total or partial hip replacement.

Do you have a question for us? If so, please send it to the Clinic at bghc.org/contact or to the Boca Beacon, and we will answer.