Total hip replacement
Total hip replacement is a surgery done to replace a damaged hip joint. Traditionally, a hip replacement would require open surgery, however today, with advanced technology, a minimally-invasive approach is used for total hip replacement. A patient might need a total hip replacement if they have significant damage to their hip joint caused by osteoarthritis (most common), rheumatoid arthritis, osteonecrosis or injury/fracture of the hip joint. This damage might be painful and interfere in the performance of daily activities. The procedure decreases the pain, improves joint mobility and improves quality of life.
How is it performed?
- The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and at times, spinal anaesthesia is also administered to minimise the pain felt after the procedure.
- After the surgical site is disinfected, the surgeon makes one or two incisions over the outside of the hip.
- The damaged femoral head is removed out of the hip joint socket and replaced with a metal piece.
- Next, a metal cup (the acetabular component) is pushed into the socket and secured with screws.
- The surgeon then places the femoral head into the new socket, with a plastic component placed in between.
- Once the replacement is complete, the incision is closed with surgical staples or stitches and the surgical area is dressed with a sterile bandage.
- Post surgery, the patient begins rehabilitation.
- As the new mechanical parts may wear out or loosen over time, a revision surgery might be required in 10 to 20 years.
