A Quick Guide to Hip Replacement Surgery

Next to knees, hips are the second most commonly replaced joint. Patients have hip replacements for lots of different medical reasons. If you are considering a hip surgery, take a look at this article for a basic rundown of everything you should know first.

Basic Hip Surgery Facts

What is Hip Replacement Surgery?

During this major surgery, a surgeon removes the worn, damaged portion of the joint and replaces it with an artificial implant.

Reasons for Hip Replacement Surgery

Arthritis, chronic inflammation that causes wear and tear (loss of cartilage and exposed bone) within the hip joint, is the most common reason patients undergo hip replacement surgery. The most common type of arthritis leading to hip replacement is osteoarthritis.

Hip Surgery Risks

No surgical procedure is without risk. In addition to the risks of undergoing general anesthesia, hip surgery can also cause blood clots, blood loss, infection, hip dislocation, implant loosening over time, and differing leg lengths.

Are You a Candidate?

Hip surgery is typically recommended when symptoms can no longer be managed with non-surgical treatments. Undergoing a hip replacement surgery at too young an age can result in having to have the surgery redone after the replacement wears. Putting off the procedure, however, also has its consequences. You should discuss hip surgery with an experienced orthopaedic surgeon before deciding.

Hip Surgery Alternatives

Hip problems can be managed with alternative treatments such as weight loss, activity adjustment, joint supplements, and anti-inflammatory medications.

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