Hip Replacement Surgery

The artificial joint components in a hip replacement surgery are fixed with cement, or acrylic, but some are removable. A hybrid hip replacement, for example, is an option in which some artificial components are coated with minerals similar to natural bone, to provide a better surface for bone to grow on. The key to bone regeneration is a healthy environment that supports new bone growth. In a hip replacement, this process will take many months, although it can be reversed with proper maintenance.

Preparation for hip replacement surgery

Before your hip replacement Brisbane, it is important to understand what to expect. While your surgery will likely involve the replacement of the femoral head, it will also replace the deteriorated socket. Your doctor will perform an x-ray before starting the procedure to make sure the prosthesis will fit properly. Your doctor will also check your leg and heart for any signs of heart disease, so that your recovery can go as smoothly as possible.

Aside from learning about the procedure, you should prepare your home for the recovery process. You should get a raised toilet seat and a grabbing tool in the bathroom. Also, make sure to refrain from smoking and drink alcohol, as they will add unnecessary stress to the joint. You should also make sure that you are healthy and close to your normal weight. A few days prior to your surgery, you should have everything ready for the recovery process.

Once your femur and socket have been stabilized, the surgeon will proceed to the ball of your hip. The ball is then fixed to the metal stem. During the surgery, your surgeon will use specialized tools to form the femur's center. This bone cement will hold the new hip joint in place. It takes a few minutes for the bone cement to dry. When the bone cement is completely set, your doctor can begin inserting the metal stem.

Types of hip replacements

There are two types of hip replacement procedures: cement-fixed and cementless. A cement-fixed THR requires a larger incision and a longer recovery time, while a cementless THR is less common. The cementless THR uses roughened or coated surfaces to stimulate bone growth. In addition, there is no adhesive used to hold the implant in place. There are many benefits to both cement-fixed and non-cemented THRs, but the former tends to have less risk of repositioning.

A hybrid hip replacement combines metal, plastic, and ceramic components. It has a metal ball that fits into a plastic socket, while the uncemented type directly impacts on a raw bone. A cemented hip replacement is usually made of a metal ball and a plastic socket. In younger people, a metal ball and socket combination is the most common. Metal-on-metal hip replacements follow updated guidelines for the procedure.

Total hip replacement involves removing the damaged thigh bone. A new metal head is cemented into the remaining thigh bone. The pelvic socket is reshaped to hold the metal cup. The surgeon may also use acrylic cement to fix the new metal cup into place. If the patient's bone is not too weak, a cemented hip replacement may be more appropriate. This procedure is a major surgical procedure, but it can provide relief.

Risks of hip replacement surgery

If you are considering getting a hip replacement, you should understand the risks involved in the surgery. While this procedure is generally pain-free, you will be put under general or spinal anesthesia. The surgery involves cutting your hip joint and creating surfaces that will accommodate the implant. Your surgeon will use specialized instruments that mimic the natural movement of your hip joint. Some people experience discomfort during the surgery, but the recovery time is typically shorter.

One of the risks of hip replacement surgery is infection, which may result from the hip joint being removed. While mild infections may heal with antibiotics, more serious cases may require corrective surgery. In rare cases, patients may experience mismatched legs, but this is usually a sign of weakness in the hip muscles. In addition, bone fractures are common complications of hip replacement surgery. There is an extremely small chance of mismatching your legs after the procedure, but it can happen.

Despite the risks of hip replacement surgery, most patients are extremely happy with their new hip. After surgery, you will be on pain medication for two to four weeks. Physical activity is restricted, and you will need to use a walker or crutches for a few weeks. The hip can only be flexed 60 degrees, so you'll need to stay off your feet for a while. You should avoid high-impact activities like running or hiking for six weeks.

Queensland Orthopaedic Clinic is a group of like-minded, sub-specialist trained medical professionals providing personalised patient care.