Total Hip Replacement

Total hip replacement (hip arthroplasty) is a common surgery. It is most often done in a patient with osteoarthritis although can be done for trauma or other conditions.

The hip is a ball (femoral head) and socket (acetabulum) joint. In a healthy joint, cartilage covers these and the hip glides through motions easily. In addition there is a fibrous labrum forming a rim along the acetabulum. Joint (synovial) fluid lubricates the joint. A capsule made up of ligaments surrounds the joint.

Conservative treatment is recommended first in patients with osteoarthritis. This consists of weight loss, physical therapy, non-addictive pain medication and corticosteroid injections. If conservative measures fail, a total hip replacement is considered.

Total hip replacement is performed in an operating room most often with general anesthesia. There are several different approaches and types of prostheses used. This is determined on an individual basis and will be discussed prior to surgery.

Most patients stay 1-3 days in the hospital. Physical therapy is an important part of the recovery and will begin in the hospital and continue after discharge. After several months of therapy most people return to the previous activities. Some high impact activities are not recommended.

Newer types of hip replacement are being developed. For more information read the recent article by Dr. Xenos in Healthy Coloradan.