If hip pain is limiting your ability to move and live comfortably, total hip replacement surgery may be the solution. This detailed guide will help you understand the procedure, its purpose, what to expect, and the recovery process.
At Orthopaedic Associates of Zanesville, our board-certified orthopaedic surgeons specialize in advanced joint replacement procedures. Contact our office in Zanesville, OH, today to see if hip replacement surgery is right for you.
Total hip replacement, also called total hip arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to relieve pain and restore function in a severely damaged hip joint. The hip is a ball-and-socket joint, where the femoral head (ball) fits into the acetabulum of the pelvic bone (socket). When these components deteriorate due to injury or disease, a total hip replacement involves replacing them with a prosthetic, or artificial joint.
During this procedure, the orthopedic surgeon removes the damaged bone and cartilage and inserts a femoral stem into the thigh bone. A ball is attached to this stem and fits into a new metal shell, known as the acetabular component. Together, these make up the replacement joint.
Two primary surgical approaches are used for hip replacement: anterior and posterior. Each surgical approach has its advantages and is selected based on the patient’s condition and the surgeon’s expertise.
Learn more about our approach to hip replacement surgery by visiting our joint replacement page at Orthopaedic Associates of Zanesville.
There are several reasons your orthopaedic surgeon might recommend hip replacement, including:
When conservative treatments fail to relieve pain, replacement surgery becomes a viable and often necessary option.
Most patients considering total hip arthroplasty are those who:
Your medical history and risk factors, such as age, lifestyle, and overall health, will be carefully reviewed before surgery is scheduled.
Before hip replacement surgery, your orthopedic team will make sure you’re ready. The team will usually carry out the following:
You may also meet with a physical therapist to prepare for post-surgical exercises.
The following procedure is usually followed during hip replacement surgery
The surgery takes about 1–2 hours to complete. You’ll be taken to a recovery room immediately after the procedure is complete.
Post-surgery, you’ll spend a short time in the hospital before starting rehabilitation.
Avoid twisting movements, crossing your legs, or bending deeply. These motions could dislocate the new hip.
Like any surgery, total hip replacement comes with possible complications, though they’re relatively rare:
Understanding and addressing these common complications and risk factors early helps ensure long-term success.
Most patients experience substantial pain relief, increased mobility, and improved quality of life following hip replacement surgery. The hip prosthesis often lasts 20–30 years, depending on the patient’s activity level and overall health.
Patients may be advised to use a shoe lift if there’s a small leg length difference or one leg feels longer than the other post-surgery. Adhering to physical therapy regimens and follow-up appointments is essential.
Ongoing clinical trials continue to enhance surgical materials, techniques, and outcomes.
If you’re ready to break free from chronic hip pain and mobility challenges, Orthopaedic Associates of Zanesville is here to help. Our team of experienced orthopaedic surgeons in Zanesville, Ohio, specializes in advanced joint replacement procedures. From diagnosis to recovery, we offer compassionate, personalized care to get you moving again with confidence.
Schedule a consultation today and take your first step toward a healthier, more active life with your new hip.
Medically reviewed by Benjamin R. Pulley, MD, FAAOS
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