Hip replacement is one of the most successful surgeries, with over 95% of patients reporting pain relief and more than 85% of implants working even after 20 years.
The procedure involves replacing the damaged portion of the hip joint with a customised implant. This implant mimics the original hip joint and allows you to do almost all those things you can do with the original one…and that’s all without the pain, discomfort and stiffness.
It is usually performed to treat hip arthritis. Injuries like broken or improperly growing hips may also need a hip replacement.
Anatomy of hip
Our hip is a ball-and-socket joint. The ball (femoral head) is at the top of the thigh bone. And the socket (acetabulum) is a cup-like structure in the pelvis. The ball moves in this socket, creating a hip joint that allows for a wide range of motion and stability.
The ball and socket are covered with soft tissues called cartilage that help them glide together smoothly. However, conditions like hip arthritis damage the cartilage, which causes the bones to rub against each other. This leads to pain and discomfort while doing daily chores or even at rest.
How to know you need a hip replacement?
- Having severe hip pain that is not relieved by pain medication, physical therapy or any other non-invasive treatment option.
- Having hip pain and stiffness that is restricting your daily activities like standing, sitting, walking, sleeping, etc.
- You’re suggested for hip replacement by a certified orthopaedician.
Types of hip replacement
- Total hip replacement (THR): It is one of the most famous and common types of hip replacement. Also known as total hip arthroplasty, it involves replacing the ball and socket of the damaged hip with the implants.
- Partial hip replacement: Also known as hemiarthroplasty, it involves replacing only one side of the hip joint, i.e., the femoral head, with the implant.
- Hip resurfacing: In this procedure, the surgeon trims the damaged part of the femoral head to a rounded shape and covers it with a smooth metal instead of completely replacing it with an implant, which is done in THR.
However, the damaged bone and cartilage in the socket are replaced with a metal shell just like in a THR. It is a good option for active and young patients as it preserves more natural bone than THR.