Total Hip Replacement

If you need a Total Hip Replacement, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What Is A Total Hip Replacement?

Total hip replacement, also known as total hip arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves replacing a damaged or diseased hip joint with an artificial joint or prosthesis. It is performed to relieve pain, improve mobility, and enhance the overall function of the hip joint.

Here are some key points about total hip replacement:

1. Purpose: The primary goal of total hip replacement is to alleviate pain and restore function in the hip joint that has been compromised due to conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, avascular necrosis, hip fractures, or other degenerative conditions.
2. Procedure: During total hip replacement, the damaged portions of the hip joint, including the femoral head (the ball-shaped end of the thigh bone) and the damaged socket (acetabulum), are removed. They are then replaced with artificial components made of metal, ceramic, or strong plastic. The artificial ball-and-socket joint recreates the normal structure and function of the hip joint.
3. Components: The artificial hip joint consists of two main components:
   • Femoral component: This includes a metal stem that is inserted into the hollow center of the thigh bone, and a ball-shaped head that replaces the damaged femoral head.
   • Acetabular component: This involves a metal cup that is implanted into the hip socket (acetabulum). A plastic or ceramic liner is placed inside the cup to provide a smooth bearing surface for the artificial joint.
4. Rehabilitation: Following total hip replacement surgery, a comprehensive rehabilitation program is typically prescribed to aid in the recovery process. This includes exercises to strengthen the hip muscles, improve range of motion, and gradually regain mobility. Physical therapy helps patients regain strength, balance, and the ability to perform daily activities.
5. Benefits: Total hip replacement offers several potential benefits, including:
   • Pain relief: The procedure effectively reduces or eliminates hip joint pain, allowing for improved quality of life.
   • Improved mobility: By replacing the damaged joint, total hip replacement restores function and mobility, enabling patients to engage in activities with less pain and greater ease.
   • Enhanced quality of life: With reduced pain and improved mobility, patients often experience an improved overall quality of life and the ability to participate in activities they may have previously been unable to do.
6. Risks and Considerations: Total hip replacement, like any surgery, carries certain risks and considerations. These include potential complications such as infection, blood clots, hip dislocation, leg length discrepancy, nerve or blood vessel damage, and wear or loosening of the artificial joint over time. It’s important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with an orthopedic surgeon to determine if total hip replacement is the appropriate treatment option for your specific condition.

Total hip replacement has been a highly successful and widely performed procedure for many years, providing significant pain relief and improved function for individuals with hip joint conditions. However, the decision to undergo total hip replacement should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional who can assess your specific condition, discuss the potential benefits and risks, and guide you through the surgical process.

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.