Hip Replacement Surgery
髋关节置换手术
the journey
Diagnosis
Getting the diagnosis right is the first step.
The main symptoms is groin pain on movement, such as walking, standing from a sitting position, getting in and out of a car. Even activities like putting your socks and shoes on.
Pain that is in the buttock, back of thigh may originate from somewhere else besides the hip joint.
Pre surgery
Knowing the journey ahead.
This surgery is not so common and hence may be scary for some patients.
Before surgery, you will be informed of the following:
- Benefits of going through the surgery- significant permanent pain relief.
- Risks of the surgery (infection, blood clots, dislocation, injury to important surrounding structures)
- What is done during the surgery.
- How long the recovery period is and what it will involve.
There will be some routine blood and ECG checks to ensure a safe surgery.
Surgery
What is actually done?
2 main parts to the hip joint- the socket and the ball.
The damaged surface of the socket is shaved away and a new metal 'cup' is implanted as the new surface.
The damaged ball part of the hip joint is then removed, and new ceramic or metal ball is implanted.
The ball and cup will then articulate with each other forming the new hip joint.
The surgery is done with you lying in a side position, and will take about 1.5hours.
Post surgery
What is the recovery like?
After surgery, you will be warded for about 2-3 days. You will be allowed discharge home when you are assessed to be safe to manage at home. Which would mean you are able to walk about with a walking aid for 30-40metres safely,
This would mean you'd be able to get to the kitchen, bedroom and toilet without your home without assistance.
There will be moderate pain and swelling from the surgery. This will mostly subside within 2 weeks.
Expectations
When it goes well- this is a hugely satisfying surgery for the patient (and surgeon!).
You should notice significant improvements in your mobility and ability to perform daily activities like walking long distances, getting in and out of a seat and even dancing and going on holidays.