At the same time, Total Hip Replacement (THR) is a serious procedure that requires you to understand the risks and make an informed decision.
What happens during hip replacement surgery?
The damaged joint surface is removed and replaced by an artificial implant consisting of steel, titanium, or ceramics. You spend a few days in the hospital and then go through rehabilitation when you are discharged. In a few weeks, your joint will be virtually like new.
It is a rather safe technique, although not completely risk-free. Some of these hazards (such as blood loss or infection) apply to all surgeries, while others are particular to this operation.
Infection at the Point of Incision: Your doctors take great effort to keep the operated and stitched region infection-free, but in some circumstances, it becomes infected. A course of antibiotics can treat this, but in extremely rare situations, if the implant region is impacted, additional operation may be necessary.
Blood clots after surgery: Your doctor will prescribe blood thinners to prevent clotting. This is because, following any form of operation, clotting might occur. This is due to inactivity during and after surgery. For THRs, clots can form in the veins surrounding the leg and pelvis.
Healthy regions of the hip joint may fracture during surgery: Larger fractures may require additional support from a metal plate, wires, or pins, but smaller ones will heal on their own if you take the correct medications and eat a nutritious diet. For a few months after surgery, the diet should be extremely healthy, with a concentration on protein, calcium, and vitamin C.
Dislocation of the ball in the new joint: Certain poses may cause the ball in your new joint to dislodge. Your doctor can help you manage this by putting on a brace and realigning it non-surgically while you are sedated; in severe situations, a follow-up operation is required. To avoid this issue, strictly adhere to the physiotherapy and exercise requirements, and avoid the positions advised by your doctor.
Change in leg length: Your legs may become unequal by a few millimetres as a result of tissue tightening or stretching around the hip. Your surgeon makes precautions to avoid the issue. If the condition persists, you will be encouraged to use a higher insole.
Loosening of implant: A well-cared-for implant can survive 20 years or more. A replacement joint, on the other hand, can loosen over time if it has not entirely fused to your bone or if it has worn down. This is uncommon with modern implant materials, but if it occurs and causes significant discomfort, surgery may be required.
Hip replacement. Surgery is safe and gives significant relief to sufferers. To make the most of it, make sure you properly follow your doctor's advice.
